Julia Rijssenbeek

Julia Rijssenbeek is a researcher affiliated with Wageningen University & Research and a former PhD candidate in Philosophy of Technology. She currently works at FreedomLab, a think tank exploring sustainable transitions and geopolitical dimensions of food systems through scenario methods and interdisciplinary research. Her academic background includes a specialization in Philosophy of Economics from Erasmus University.

Research Interests: Julia investigates conceptual shifts in biological matter and lifeforms driven by synthetic biology, aligning with broader themes of bioethics, technologically informed futures, and societal disruption. Her work contributes to envisioning a bio-based economy and sustainable technological paradigms.

Scientific Awards & Collaborations: She earned a

• Cum Laude distinction for her PhD thesis
• Collaborates with artists and designers through the Bio Art & Design award

Knowledge Exchange: Julia applied the Collaborative Ethics framework during a research stay at the Wyss Institute, Harvard University, and engages in cross-sector partnerships to bridge ethics with emerging technologies.