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The Sustainable Futures Design Lab is a collective of University of Kentucky researchers dedicated to socially responsible, critically engaged design that drives meaningful impact in Kentucky and beyond.

By bringing together scholars from across disciplines, the lab fosters new collaborations, shares resources and supports creative scholarship that is deeply connected to community needs and global challenges.


What We Do

  • Host gatherings that connect researchers and spark interdisciplinary dialogue

  • Develop and support community-engaged design projects with real-world relevance

  • Create spaces for collaboration to foster trust and connection

  • Promote sustainable solutions through academic research and outreach

SFDL

Funding Opportunity: Rapid Response Research Pilot Grants

Faculty at the University of Kentucky may be eligible for up to $10,000 in funding through the Sustainable Futures Design Lab to support rapid-response, community-engaged projects related to environmental health, natural disasters and rural resiliency in Kentucky.

This opportunity supports the development of tools, technologies and creative design concepts that promote sustainable, community-focused solutions.

Applications close July 1, 2025.

Learn More and Apply

Our Team

Jeff Fugate
Jeff Fugate
Associate Professor of Extension
Rebekah Radtke
Rebekah Radtke, M.Arch
Associate Professor
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Serenity Wright, Ed.D.
Senior Executive Director for Innovation, Community Health and Societal Impact

Our efforts are funded by the University of Kentucky Office of Vice President for Research Emerging Themes for Research Program.