📍Current Position
Dr. Carmen Rotondi currently holds a Researcher (RTD-A) position in Design at the Department of Planning, Design, and Technology of Architecture (PDTA) at Sapienza University of Rome. This role is aligned with the PNRR PE|11 project, focusing on the thematic line “MICS – Circular and Sustainable Made in Italy,” under the supervision of Prof. L. Imbesi. Her research primarily revolves around materials for design, digital technologies, systemic design approaches, and sustainable innovations in the Italian furniture and fashion industries.
📝Publication Achievements
Journals Published
Dr. Rotondi has an impressive portfolio of scientific publications that reflects her deep engagement with the fields of bio-digital design, material systems, and sustainability. Some of her recent works include: “Bio-digital’ Material Systems” – A chapter in a book published by Springer in 2024, co-authored with S. Lucibello, focusing on new hybrid ways for material-driven design innovation. “Bioreceptive Ceramic Surfaces: Material Experimentations for Responsible Research and Design Innovation in Circular Economy Transition and ‘Ecological Augmentation'” – A significant paper in Sustainability. “How are the informed relations between physical, digital, and biological dimensions changing the design practice, as well as the sustainability paradigm?” – Published in Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology.
🔍Ongoing Research
Dr. Rotondi is actively involved in research that delves into the convergence of nature and technology, particularly through the lens of Bio-Digital and Bio-Augmented Materiality. Her ongoing projects include: “Bio-digital manufacturing: new hybrid biofabrication protocols as experimental domains of convergence between design and contemporary biosciences.” “Bio-Augmented Materiality: Hybrid and Strategic Visions for Advanced Manufacturing,” which explores innovative approaches to materiality where design and biology intersect.
🔬Research Interests
Dr. Rotondi’s research interests are diverse and interdisciplinary, encompassing: Bio-Digital Manufacturing: Exploring new methods of fabricating materials that integrate biological elements. Sustainable Design: Innovating eco-friendly materials and processes within the design and architecture fields. Material Systems: Investigating how materials can be designed and utilized to foster a more sustainable and interconnected relationship between humans and the environment. Biomimetics and Biodesign: Drawing inspiration from nature to create designs that are both functional and environmentally responsible.
🎓Academic Background
Dr. Rotondi’s academic journey is marked by excellence and dedication: Ph.D. in Planning, Design, and Technology of Architecture (PDTA) from Sapienza University of Rome (2023), with honors. Her thesis, titled “Bio-Augmented Materiality. A Strategic Vision for Bio-Digital Design,” focused on the convergence of nature and artifice in design. International Master’s Degree in Product Design from Sapienza University of Rome (2018), with honors and a thesis on the biological encoding of design. Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design from Sapienza University of Rome (2015), where she graduated with honors.
🏆Scholarships and Awards
Throughout her career, Dr. Rotondi has received several scholarships and awards, highlighting her academic and research excellence: A Ph.D. scholarship from the Department of Planning, Design, and Technology of Architecture at Sapienza University. Several collaboration grants at Sapienza University and other institutions, which supported her research in digital fabrication, eco-sustainable materials, and rapid manufacturing.
💻Bioinformatics and Digital Fabrication
Dr. Rotondi’s work in bioinformatics and digital fabrication is groundbreaking. She has developed protocols that merge biological sciences with design, particularly through bio-digital manufacturing. Her expertise in 3D printing, bioprinting, and the use of unconventional materials like ceramics and biomaterials has led to innovative contributions in design and sustainability.
🌐Professional Associations
Dr. Rotondi is an active member of various professional associations and research groups. She has collaborated with institutes, research centers, and companies, enhancing her research’s impact and reach. She is also a founding member of the Youth Association Laboratorio 11, dedicated to scientific dissemination through art and design.
📚Training & Workshops
Dr. Rotondi has participated in and organized numerous training sessions and workshops, focusing on bio-digital fabrication, sustainable design, and the integration of biological elements into the design process. Her workshops often emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from design, biology, and technology.
🎤Oral Presentations and🗣️Thought Leadership
Dr. Rotondi is a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences. She has delivered lectures on topics such as “Bio-digital fabrication in Fashion Design” and “Biomimetics. Innovation Inspired by Nature,” sharing her research findings and insights with a broader audience.
🧑🔬Tasks Completed as a Researcher
As a researcher, Dr. Rotondi has completed numerous tasks, including: The development of new bio-digital manufacturing protocols. Coordination of research projects focused on sustainable materials and design. Supervision of thesis projects at both the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels.
🚀Success Factors
Dr. Rotondi attributes her success to a combination of academic rigor, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a passion for sustainable design. Her ability to integrate complex scientific concepts into practical design applications has set her apart in the field.
🧪Publications & Laboratory Experience
Dr. Rotondi’s publications are widely recognized for their contribution to sustainable design and bio-digital manufacturing. Her laboratory experience, particularly in digital fabrication and bioprinting, has enabled her to pioneer new methods and materials that push the boundaries of what is possible in design.