The focus is on sharing knowledge and facilities to bridge the gap between academic research and the practical applications of biobased research. The collaboration allows students from Design Academy Eindhoven to use Avans’ advanced biobased laboratories: the Living Green Lab in Den Bosch, the Biopolymer Application Centre (BAC) in Breda, and the Material Incubator in Den Bosch.
MNEXT and Caradt
These laboratories are part of Avans’ Centres of Expertise, MNEXT and Caradt, both of which have a wide range of research groups and professors. Wouter Meys, manager of Caradt, explains: “This collaboration enables us to apply our knowledge and methods beyond the traditional higher vocational education and provides us with the opportunity to make a significant impact on both education and industry.”
Ralph Simons, director of MNEXT, adds: “At MNEXT, we see the interaction between artists, designers, and the materials transition as crucial. By having students already work with new materials during their education, we accelerate adoption by both industry and end users. We have been collaborating with Caradt in various ways for some time, and through André van de Wijdeven, there is already a strong connection between MNEXT and the Design Academy. We are therefore excited about the expansion into the Extended Labs, which allows us to jointly expand our knowledge and expertise in biobased materials.”
Foundation for Future Innovations
Extended Labs officially kicks off with several subprojects, including presentations of the biobased labs to teachers and new students. And special workshops focusing on the practical application of biobased materials. This partnership between Avans University of Applied Sciences, through the Centres of Expertise MNEXT and Caradt, and Design Academy Eindhoven promises to lay the foundation for future innovations and a more sustainable future. It confirms both institutions’ commitment to progressive and impactful education.
For more information, please contact:
André van de Wijdeven, MNEXT
Wouter Meys, Caradt
Tessa Blokland, Design Academy Eindhoven
