»Green Utopia« lets your scientific expertise take centre stage and pairs it with creative visions for a sustainable future. As part of this project, eight green-tech researchers will collaborate with 30 young designers from FH JOANNEUM to translate cutting-edge research into visionary ideas for the year 2050. These ideas will be presented in short films distributed globally via industry media and social platforms, making research tangible and accessible to a broad audience.
Looking for Ideas for a Sustainable Future
The project seeks “green utopias”—research projects centred around visionary ideas or goals that may not be achievable by 2030 but could become reality by 2050. The focus is on projects where foundational research is evolving into applied research to bring these visions to life.
Your Role as a PhD or Researcher
As a researcher, you’ll benefit in multiple ways:
- Your scientific work will be enriched by the creative perspectives of an interdisciplinary team.
- You’ll act as a mentor to students and designers, exchanging ideas and receiving a professionally created, freely usable video showcasing your research.
- The project offers a platform to expand your international network and enhance your media visibility.
Your Commitment
- Two in-person sessions (approx. 2–3 hours each)
- Two online sessions
- Mentoring: Availability to answer students’ questions
Note: The final output (video) will target a general, non-scientific audience. Therefore, creatives will have the final say in the visual execution of the work.
Your Benefits
- Global awareness: Raise visibility for your research
- International media outreach: Promote your work to a wider audience
- Networking: Expand your research network and stakeholder connections
- Mentoring experience: Guide and inspire the next generation of designers
- Creative input: Gain new perspectives and inspiration for your work
- Science communication: Receive a professionally crafted video to communicate your research effectively
- Showcasing your work: Present your project at a major public event
Final Event at Design Month Graz 2025
Your vision will be part of the journey from ideation to creative workshops, culminating in the final event on 27 May 2025 at the festival hub of Design Month Graz at Hornig Areal. The utopias will be presented in an “Oscar ceremony” format, followed by a panel discussion with representatives from business, science, and politics.
