Dr. Melissa Sterry is a renowned design scientist, systems theorist, and designer. She leads groundbreaking work in sustainable design and future-focused thinking. Melissa has driven award-winning projects and startups, using science, technology, and design to spark positive change. In recognition of her contributions, she received the 2024 Woman Icon of the Year award and the Mensa International Award.
With a PhD in designing wildfire-resilient spaces, Melissa is a chartered scientist. She focuses on mimicking natural ecosystems to create resilient environments. Her research spans architecture, urban planning, and environmental design. She developed concepts like Pyrophytic and Xerophytic Architecture to address wildfire and arid climate challenges.
In 2019, Melissa founded Bioratorium®, a consultancy in biofuturism and bioinnovation. She also launched Bionic City® in 2010 to explore nature-inspired urban design. With more than 25 years of experience, Melissa has pioneered ideas in biomaterials, biodesign, and sustainability. She also shares her expertise as a visiting professor and advisor at UCL, the Bartlett, and Central Saint Martins, UAL.
As a futurist, Melissa ranks among the Top 100 worldwide. She advises global clients on sustainable futures and has been featured in over 60 international publications. She frequently appears in films, radio shows, and podcasts. In 2024, she was named one of the Top 20 speakers shaping sustainability at the board level.
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 appeared in over 450 global publications, showcasing her influence on sustainability, innovation, and enterprise.
