Series of Meetings: Biomaterials

The biomaterials circle is designed as a series of meetings that will take place every other Monday, where we will gain basic knowledge of biomaterials, their extraction, processing possibilities, and applications in product design.

After the introductory theoretical part, where basic biomaterials, production techniques, and some examples of current practices will be presented, a series of experiments will follow. In these experiments, participants will become acquainted with the equipment in the green lab and basic types and techniques for obtaining biomaterials. Throughout the consecutive meetings, we will explore different types of materials, from gels to mycelium biofoam, scoby, and apple peels to coffee grounds composites. Subsequently, more independent work is encouraged, activating participants' interest and ideas for creating with biomaterials.

The circle also serves as training for working with machines in the green lab, covering experimentation with biomaterials, research in current development practices, and collaboration within a team.

The program will be led by the green lab mentor team, Maruša Ramšak, Rok Oblak, Sašo Jakob, and Zelimkhan Suleymanov, who will provide guidance, answer questions, and share their passion for biomaterials.

Maruša Ramšak is a biotechnologist who conducted research in synthetic biology at the National Institute of Chemistry. She loves nature, gardening, and is passionate about all things fermented. She is also the head of the green lab at Center Rog.

Rok Oblak is an independent creator specializing in innovating products from natural materials and biocomposites. He is the founder of the brand Salto Dionys, collaborates with the Krater collective and Levo workshop, where he also has his studio.

Sašo Jakob is a biochemistry student interested in exploring the intersections of science and design in all possible forms.

Zelimkhan Suleymanov is an Architecture student, technologist, mentor at RogLab, and now at Center Rog. In his @Khan.workshop, he creates various prototypes, models, and advertising signs. At home, he is involved in aquaponics, growing microgreens, and mycelium.

The green lab mentors will collaborate to assist in the realization of prototypes, which can range from materials, semi-finished products to finished products, both for personal needs and as the seeds of business ideas relevant to the market.

The assembly of participants is five minutes before the agreed-upon time in the entrance hall of Center Rog.