Project ISF-DUIRI: From Fungi to Fiber — Sustainable Mycelium Paper and Packaging Program DUIRI - Discovery Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Research Internship Term Spring 2026 Status Accepted Research Area Global Sustainability Description This project explores the development of mycelium-based paper and packaging as a sustainable, pulp-free alternative to conventional paper products. Unlike traditional paper production, which requires mechanical breakdown, high temperatures, and harsh chemical treatments, mycelium paper is biofabricated under ambient conditions by growing fungal networks directly into sheet-like forms. This process eliminates energy-intensive pulping and bleaching, leading to drastically lower embodied energy and carbon emissions. The mycelium grows rapidly on agricultural waste and forms a naturally entangled fiber structure that is strong, flexible, and suitable for single-use packaging. Because the fibers are grown rather than extracted, the production process is faster and more resource-efficient than conventional plant-based methods. The resulting materials are biodegradable and compostable, providing an eco-friendly end-of-life pathway. We have established proof of concept, developed early-stage pilot-scale fabrication, positioning this technology for real-world deployment in sustainable packaging and paper markets. Students participating in this project will gain hands-on experience not only in biomaterials research, but also in early-stage technology translation and deployment. The project contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): by replacing resource-intensive pulp processing with low-impact biological growth. SDG 13 (Climate Action): by reducing carbon emissions through ambient, chemical-free manufacturing. SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): by introducing a scalable biofabrication method for next-generation materials. Supervisor Tian Li Mentor Type of work required
The student will engage in the fabrication, testing, and optimization of mycelium-based paper and packaging materials grown under ambient conditions. Responsibilities include preparing mycelium substrates, cultivating mycelium in mold-based geometries, and processing the resulting material into thin, flexible sheets. The student will characterize key material properties such as mechanical strength, flexibility, biodegradability, and water resistance, and compare the environmental impact of these materials to conventional paper products. In addition, the student may assist in packaging prototype development and data documentation for future presentations and publications.

Through this work, the student will directly contribute to advancing the group’s goal of developing scalable, low-carbon alternatives to traditional pulp-based materials. The results generated will support invention disclosures, provide data for potential publications, and help refine production methods for future technology deployment. This project offers the student a unique opportunity to experience both fundamental biomaterials research and early-stage technology translation within an interdisciplinary sustainability-focused lab. Websites https://www.tianliresearch.com/
https://www.aime-lab.com/ Qualifications Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and be in good academic standing. Candidates with background knowledge of mycology are preferred. The project is also open to students majoring in engineering, materials science, environmental science, etc. We welcome students with curiosity about sustainable materials and an interest in working with living systems. Experience with CAD, microscopy, or fabrication tools is a plus. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn and work independently are essential for success in this project. Credit Hours 3 Weekly Hours 5 (estimated)