Dr. Melissa Sterry is an internationally acclaimed design scientist, systems theorist, and designer. She is known for her innovative work in sustainable design and future-focused thinking. Melissa has led award-winning projects and start-ups that use science, technology, and design to create positive change. Her achievements include the 2024 Woman Icon of the Year award and the Mensa International Award for contributions to society.
A chartered scientist with a PhD in designing wildfire-resilient spaces, Melissa focuses on mimicking natural ecosystems to build resilient environments. Her research covers architecture, urban planning, and environmental design. She developed pioneering concepts like Pyrophytic and Xerophytic Architecture, which address wildfires and arid climate challenges.
Melissa founded Bioratorium® in 2019, a consultancy in biofuturism and bioinnovation, and Bionic City® in 2010, which explores nature-inspired urban design. With over 25 years of experience, she has created groundbreaking ideas in biomaterials, biodesign, and sustainability. She also serves as a visiting professor, lecturer, advisor, and examiner at top institutions like UCL, the Bartlett, and Central Saint Martins, UAL.
As a sought-after futurist, Melissa ranks among the Top 100 worldwide. She advises global clients on sustainable futures and has been featured in over 60 international publications. Her media appearances include film, radio, and podcasts. A frequent keynote speaker, she was named one of the Top 20 speakers shaping sustainability at the board level in 2024.
Melissa is a Fellow of the Institute of Science and Technology, the Design Research Society, and the Royal Society of Arts. She is also a member of the National Coalition of Independent Scholars (US) and the Design Council expert network. Her work has been featured in over 450 publications globally, highlighting her impact on sustainability, innovation, and enterprise.
