Alexandra Lăcătușu is a researcher, designer, and educator at the intersection of architecture, biology, and technology, dedicated to dissolving traditional disciplinary boundaries. Currently undertaking an EPSRC-funded PhD within UCL’s Bio-Integrated Design Lab, her research examines the ecological role of mosses in reducing urban pollution. Integrating lab-based bryological methods, hardware engineering, and digital design, Alexandra develops innovative strategies and prototypes applicable to architecture. Alongside her research, Alexandra teaches in UCL’s Bio-Integrated Design MArch and MSc programs and serves as a tutor and examiner at the Oxford School of Architecture. Her work has gained international recognition, with exhibitions at prestigious events such as the 2018 RIBA President’s Medals and the 2021 Venice Biennale. Alexandra’s contributions to architectural and environmental design continue to push the boundaries of interdisciplinary collaboration.

“My mission is to bring people from multiple disciplines to the design table, foster new work processes, and articulate a shared vision for the future of Romanian biotech that puts us on the global map. The goal is to nurture brilliant minds, foster collaboration and put ecology and ecological thinking into everything we do.”