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Bridging Microbial Life and Digital Worlds
What's been brewing in biodesign this week?
Hello Biodesign Community,
This week, we’re bringing insights from Biofabricate 2025, where Biodesign Academy joined a panel on accessibility in biodesign, alongside a look at biotic gaming in an upcoming webinar, the latest release from Elle Macmillan’s BIO-ZINES, and groundbreaking research in biomaterials-based tissue engineering.
Biodesign Academy at Biofabricate: Exploring Pathways into Biodesign
Last Thursday, Raphael from Biodesign Academy joined an insightful panel discussion as part of Biofabricate’s "Getting into Biodesign" webinar. Moderated by Emma van der Leest, the session brought together key voices in the field, including Paul Rubery (Biodesign Challenge) and Aaron Nesser (Material Factors), to explore how newcomers can access the resources, tools, and networks needed to dive into biodesign.
One of the key takeaways? Accessibility remains a major challenge. While hands-on materials and lab access are often limited, Biodesign Academy emphasized the critical role of digital literacy in bridging this gap. From creating digital twins and incorporating AI in biodesign to setting up remote experimentation platforms, there’s huge potential for open-access learning. We’re already working on future online courses to make these tools more accessible to aspiring biodesigners worldwide.
Missed the session?
📌 Join Biofabricate’s Community Membership to catch the recording, and to receive many more other benefits.
And for those looking to level up their skills, stay tuned—new courses from Biodesign Academy are on the way!

Gif by anaperezlopez on Giphy
Publication Corner
Advances in biomaterials-based tissue engineering for regeneration of female reproductive tissues
Yong Ho Kim, Hyung-Sik Kim and In-Sun Hong
The anatomical components of the female reproductive system—comprising the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, and fallopian tubes—interact intricately to provide the structural and hormonal support essential for reproduction. However, this system is susceptible to various detrimental factors, both congenital and acquired, that can impair fertility and adversely affect quality of life. Recent advances in bioengineering have led to the development of sophisticated three-dimensional (3D) models that mimic the complex architecture and functionality of reproductive organs. These models, incorporating diverse cell types and tissue layers, are crucial for understanding physiological processes within the reproductive tract.
They offer insights into decidualization, ovulation, folliculogenesis, and the progression of reproductive cancers, thereby enhancing personalized medical treatments and addressing female infertility. This review highlights the pivotal role of tissue engineering in diagnosing and treating female infertility, emphasizing the importance of considering factors like biocompatibility, biomaterial selection, and mechanical properties in the design of bioengineered systems.
The challenge of replicating the functionally specialized and structurally complex organs, such as the uterus and ovary, underscores the need for reliable techniques that improve morphological and functional restoration. Despite substantial progress, the goal of creating a fully artificial female reproductive system is still a challenge. Nonetheless, the recent fabrication of artificial ovaries, uteruses, cervixes, and vaginas marks significant advancements toward this aim. Looking forward, the challenges in bioengineering are expected to spur further innovations in both basic and applied sciences, potentially hastening the clinical adoption of these technologies.
(Link to the paper)
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BIO-ZINES by Elle Macmillan: Expanding Access to Biodesign Knowledge
Designer and educator Elle Macmillan is on a mission to challenge the lack of accessible information on environmental responsibility in design with BIO-ZINES—a collection of zines aimed at inspiring the next generation of bio-designers through education and communication.
🚀 New Release: BIO-ABILITY ZINE – Out 7th February!
Following the success of BIO-ACCESS, Elle’s latest edition, BIO-ABILITY, explores the different capabilities of bio-materials through bio-designing. Packed with insights, practical tips, and creative inspiration, this 32-page zine is a must-read for those looking to dive deeper into biodesign.
Inside BIO-ABILITY, you’ll find:
🌿 AI & Design: How artificial intelligence is shaping the design community.
🌿 Natural Dyeing Recipes: Two easy-to-follow guides for achieving beautiful blue hues naturally.
🌿 Rising Stars: 6 exciting and inspirational designers/makers to watch.
🌿 Getting Involved: Top tips for engaging with the biodesign community in 2025. (+ more!)
🔗 Order your copy now: BIO-ABILITY ZINE on Etsy.

Biotic Games – Bridging Microbial Life and Digital Play
🦠🎮 How do microbes become part of interactive gameplay? Discover the emerging world of biotic games, where digital play meets the microbial world in an exciting fusion of biology and technology.
📅 Date: February 11, 2025
⏰ Time: 12:00 PM (ET) | 6:00 PM (CET)
📍 Online | Free to attend
Hosted by Biodesign Challenge (bdc), this free global webinar features @Raphael Kim (Biodesign Academy), who will introduce biotic gaming and explore how games can cultivate meaningful human-microbe interactions.
Expect insights into:
🔬 Notable projects shaping the field
🎭 Creative & technical challenges in biotic game design
⚖️ Ethical dilemmas & unexpected discoveries
🛠 Practical steps to start designing your own biotic games
Whether you're a student, designer, or biodesign enthusiast, this session will spark fresh perspectives on the intersections of biology, technology, and creativity.
About the Speaker:
Raphael Kim is a researcher, writer, designer, and educator specializing in biodesign. As the founder of Biodesign Academy, he translates complex scientific ideas into accessible insights. With a background in biotechnology, interaction design, and microbial gaming, his work has been showcased at ACM CHI and Now Play This Festival in London, UK.
🔗 Register now to secure your spot.

So there you have it. Whether you're here to expand your skills, discover new ideas, or connect with the biodesign community, there’s plenty to explore. Sign up for the biotic gaming webinar, check out BIO-ZINES, and stay tuned for new online courses from Biodesign Academy—we’ll be announcing them right here in the newsletter. Let’s keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in biodesign!
Best wishes,
Biodesign Academy