Research

Research at ECU

The Urban Screen and East Entrance at Emily Carr University showcase a modern architectural design with vibrant colors and large glass windows. The building features a prominent digital display screen on the side, adding a dynamic visual element to the campus. The entrance is marked by wooden accents and clear signage, creating an inviting and contemporary atmosphere.
Research

Research at ECU

DESIS Lab

Exploring how design can drive social innovation and sustainability through community collaboration, participatory research and creative rethinking of how we live, work and connect.

Master of Design student Morgan Martino stands confidently in the DESIS Lab at Emily Carr University during the Jake Kerr Faculty of Graduate Studies 2024 Open Studios. The background features a wall covered with colorful sticky notes and diagrams, showcasing her research and design process. The table in front of her is organized with neatly folded fabrics and materials, reflecting her creative and methodical approach to her work.

Designing for Sustainable Social Change

The DESIS Lab at Emily Carr is dedicated to exploring how design can support and sustain processes of social innovation for a more sustainable future.

With strengths in participatory design, contextual research and sustainability, Emily Carr University is the only institution in Canada to host a DESIS Lab. Our lab is part of the global Design for Social Innovation and Sustainability network, which includes over 45 labs worldwide.

A Community-Driven Approach

Coordinated by faculty members Louise St. Pierre, Charlotte Falk, Laura Kozak and Hélène Day Fraser, the Emily Carr DESIS Lab supports student- and faculty-led research, public engagement and international collaboration.

We host regular DESIS Café gatherings, open to the public, where we explore themes of social innovation, sustainability and design. We also support community-based projects that build meaningful dialogue around how design can help shape more equitable and ecologically responsible futures.

Visit our Microsite

Get to Know Us Better

Contact

Louise St. Pierre
Emily Carr DESIS lab Coordinator
lsp@ecuad.ca

Hélène Day Fraser
Emily Carr DESIS lab Manager
hfraser@ecuad.ca

Emily Carr DESIS Site
Emily Carr DESIS on Facebook
Emily Carr Research Site

DESIS Network Website
DESIS Philosophy Talks
DESIS Network on Facebook

Let’s work together.

Inquire

Have a project or idea in mind? We welcome inquiries from industry and community partners. Connect with us at research@ecuad.ca to explore collaborations and partnerships, or access to our researchers, technologies and emerging talent.

Access Funding

Industry partnerships with Emily Carr Research may qualify for government funding that supports innovation and research. Learn more about funding opportunities by contacting us at research@ecuad.ca.

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