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

Our Research Labs + Centres

Discover how Emily Carr University’s research centres and clusters foster collaborative, cross-disciplinary inquiry and amplify our impact locally, nationally and internationally.

These groups bring together faculty and students around shared areas of research. Formal centres (see below) receive sustained funding and activity, while clusters are more emergent. Both structures help formalize collaboration, highlight priority areas and open the door to external partnerships.

Projects often overlap or evolve and not all research fits neatly within these groups—but together, they reflect the breadth and impact of research at ECU.

Explore our Projects

Health Design Lab

Applies participatory design to support and amplify initiatives that tackle complex challenges in health and healthcare systems.

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Bachelor of Fine Arts student Shelly Kositsky and Master of Design student Sreya Naga Iakshi are engaged in the Charred Wood research initiative at Emily Carr University’s Material Matters research hub. Shelly holds up a piece of dark, textured material made from wood charcoal, showcasing an early experimental sample. Sreya stands beside her, smiling with interest, as they collaborate on exploring sustainable materials and innovative design applications.

Material Matters

Explores material innovation technologies and rapid prototyping through design research, materials experimentation and hands-on making.

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A group of attendees is seated in a darkened theater at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, watching dynamic media screenings during the 2025 show. The audience is focused and engaged, with some holding drinks or snacks, while others lean forward to better absorb the content. The room features soundproofing panels on the walls and a projector screen displaying vibrant visuals, creating an immersive viewing experience.

Basically Good Media Lab

Explores the cultural, social and critical potential of new and old technologies through partnerships and residencies.

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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.

DESIS Lab

Focuses on how design can drive social change, social innovation and sustainability.

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ECU student Eknoor Matharoo collaborates with students from the Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA) during the Tide Places: Artists in Dialogue residency. The group is engaged in a workshop setting, working together at a table with papers and materials spread out. The atmosphere reflects a dynamic exchange of ideas as participants focus on their tasks, showcasing the cross-cultural collaboration facilitated by Canadian artist Lou Sheppard, Estonian artist Laura Põld, and ECU researcher Laura Kozak.

Shumka Centre for Creative Entrepreneurship

Supports artists and designers in moving their work into the world—through systems, platforms and opportunities where creative ideas can have real impact.

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