Fabricating the Future

Following up on the success of its Trieste Mini Maker Faire in May 2014, ICTP is opening a workshop space encouraging "makers"--people who like to design and build technology-based products--to bring their creative ideas to life.

The space, called the Scientific Fabrication Laboratory, or SciFabLab, will open officially on 12 August, and is now accepting project proposals from makers both within and outside the ICTP community.

The SciFabLab is the first "fabrication laboratory" in the Friuli-Venezia-Giulia region. It will offer modern and versatile computer-controlled rapid prototyping tools such as 3D printers, 3D scanners, laser engraving and cutting machines.

"ICTP's SciFabLab aims to play a significant role as a hub to support the creative work of scientists and scholars," says Enrique Canessa, head of the centre's Science Dissemination Unit, the group who proposed and will manage the lab. He adds, "Together we can open new dimensions in science and education, inspire curiosity and offer powerful new ways to facilitate the development of new ideas with a significant impact."

Canessa explains that use of the SciFabLab is free and subject to the acceptance of a project proposal. Priority will be given to science, education or sustainable development projects, including thesis projects; robotics, electronics, micro-controllers and computer-based science projects; 3D printing for education; green? ?technologies and alternative energies; and "Smart Village" and "Internet of Things" applications. Canessa emphasizes that the SciFabLab is open to everyone, not only ICTP.

The SciFabLab is accepting project proposals now. To apply, complete the application form available at scifablab.ictp.it.

Contact Details:
ICTP Scientific Fabrication Laboratory
Fermi Building, via Beirut 6
Grignano, Trieste
scifablab@ictp.it