The People and Nature Lab runs a suite of purpose-built flexible lab spaces. These include wet and dry labs, a dedicated teaching lab, a garden lab, and equipment storage areas. They support work in ecological sampling, eDNA analysis, field experimentation, and sensor deployment. These labs are primarily used by People and Nature Lab students and researchers but can beused by other faculties with permission. We have access to modern facilities including research laboratories, collaborative workspaces, and our own experimental roof terrace where we can trial new technologies and ideas in a controlled environment.
The People and Nature Lab is based at UCL East, in the heart of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Green spaces, waterways, and the built environment sit side-by-side in an area where sustainable development is seen as a priority. All new developments in the area – the UCL East campus included – must demonstrate a commitment to improving the area for people, wildlife, and the environment. This means that the UCL East campus and its surrounds provide the perfect setting for our experimental work.
Our Research Facilities
Living Laboratory
Discover our purpose-built Living Laboratory at the heart of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Garden Lab
A flexible outdoor research and teaching space supporting hands-on learning and the deployment of advanced environmental sensors, all mirrored in a digital twin enabling monitoring and data analysis.
Agritech Platform
We are developing new research facilities focusing on climate-resilient food systems.
Environmental DNA Lab
A dedicated clean lab for the preparation and analysis of low copy environmental DNA (eDNA) samples. All users must follow strict protocols to prevent contamination and ensure data integrity.
Other Laboratories
A flexible space for up to 35 students, equipped for wet and dry experiments, with full AV set up and projection. It’s ideal for small-group teaching, field courses, MSc research projects, and external training.
A shared, flexible space equipped with PCR and qPCR machines, microscopes, water quality sensors, autoclaves, fridges, and freezers.Suitable for a wide range of ecological and molecular biology work.
The People and Nature Lab has access to several other research facilities ran by other departments and faculties. This includes the Connected Environnements Lab, the Fabrication Workshop, the Robotics and Autonomous Systems Lab. Collaborative work is a key feature at UCL East.