Background information
Mycelium bio-composites (MBCs) combine fungal mycelium with organic substrates to create lightweight, biodegradable components for construction. While progress has been made in production techniques and mechanical or thermal performance, the end-of-life phase remains largely unexplored. Understanding how MBCs behave after use—whether they can be reused, remanufactured, composted, or safely broken down—is critical for verifying their environmental benefits.
The MycEoLA project, now in its second year, aims to identify the most promising end-of-life strategies for mycelium materials.
This internship is part of MNEXT’s research group on Biobased Construction, which focuses on developing, testing and evaluating innovative circular solutions for the built environment. MNEXT is a Centre of Expertise within Avans University of Applied Sciences and HZ University of Applied Sciences, dedicated to accelerating the materials and energy transition through applied research, collaboration with industry and meaningful knowledge dissemination.
About MNEXT and the Biobased Construction Research Group
MNEXT works with students, researchers, lecturers and industry partners to accelerate the shift toward sustainable materials and energy systems. Within MNEXT, the Biobased Construction research group focuses on biobased building concepts, circular construction strategies, material prototyping and testing, and innovative applications of mycelium-based materials.
Assignment Description
In this assignment, you will explore and prototype various end-of-life pathways for mycelium-based composites. Your role is to develop small-scale demonstrators or proof-of-concept models that show how MBCs can be repurposed, decomposed, or transformed into new materials. These prototypes may be showcased through exhibitions, demonstrations, or short video explainers.
Your work may include:
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Designing and prototyping small-scale end-of-life concepts
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Testing decomposition, reuse, recycling or remanufacturing scenarios
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Conducting material or biodegradation tests in the lab
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Comparing different end-of-life routes based on environmental and practical feasibility
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Gathering stakeholder input (builders, designers, students, manufacturers)
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Producing visual / demonstrative outputs to communicate findings
Research question
“What are the most viable end-of-life scenarios for mycelium bio-composites, and how can these be validated through prototyping and testing?”
Desired Skills
We are looking for a student with:
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Background or interest in design, materials science, circular economy, environmental science, communication, or related fields
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Interest in biobased materials and sustainability transitions
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Ability to work hands-on in a lab, workshop, or prototyping environment
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Basic experience with experimental design and documentation
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An analytical and structured working style
Guidance
You will be supervised by researchers from MNEXT with expertise in biobased materials, circular design, prototyping and experimental research.
Regular progress meetings and support in lab work, testing methods and reporting will be provided.
Practical Details
Compensation
According to MNEXT / HZ policies
Working Language
English