The Open Laboratory of Brasília (LAB), located at the University of Brasília (UnB) in the heart of Brazil's capital, is dedicted to democratizing the access to technologies for social innovation and to developing future-ready talent for purpose-driven engineering and design.
We believe in the power of education and co-design projects. LAB strongly incorporates Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and learning-by-doing into its operations. Instead of traditional theoretical approaches, we bring together engineering and design students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and the local community to solve real-world challenges through rapid prototyping, and participatory and collaborative design with a broad, systemic view of society's wicked problems.
As a vital bridge between academia and Society, we don't just build projects; we build solutions. LAB has a solid track record in the development of prototypes and technological solutions for major Brazilian institutions across various sectors, including: Agritech; Healthcare; Aerospace; Fashion; the Public Sector; the Private Sector, and Startups.
Infrastructure and Focus Areas
Equipped with a comprehensive inventory for digital fabrication, our space specializes in:
• Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) and Laser Cutting
• Electronics, Microcontrollers, and Internet of Things (IoT)
• Simulation and Hardware/Software Integration

Through these collaborative efforts, LAB acts as a catalyst for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Driven by engineering and design with a social purpose, we foster Quality Education (SDG 4) through hands-on learning and strengthen Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9) by democratizing access to digital fabrication. Furthermore, the solutions we develop for sectors like Agritech and Healthcare directly impact goals such as Zero Hunger (SDG 2) and Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3). By uniting academia, society, and industry through strong Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17), LAB transforms complex societal challenges into real, sustainable impact.