Lionel Dean

Lionel Dean is a Senior Lecturer at De Montfort University, affiliated with the Faculty of Arts, Design and Humanities and the School of Design. His work bridges art, craft, and design through the creative application of digital technologies.

• Institution: De Montfort University
• Faculty: Arts, Design and Humanities
• School: School of Design
• Research Groups: Design and New Product Development, Creative use of Digital Design and Manufacturing Technologies

Dean received his PhD from the University of Huddersfield in 2010. His research focuses on the intersection of computational systems and physical fabrication, exploring how digital tools can redefine making and design practice.

His primary research interests include Additive Manufacture, Computational Design, Digital Craft, Generative Design, Rapid Prototyping, and Digital Making. These fields reflect his commitment to pushing the boundaries of design through technology, particularly in personalisation, sustainability, and high-value material applications.

The recent publications highlight a consistent trajectory in digital design and additive manufacturing, with themes spanning artistic expression, technical innovation in 3D printing, and the socio-economic implications of postindustrial production. His work often combines aesthetic exploration with engineering precision, especially in jewellery and sculptural forms.

Lionel Dean has been recognized through numerous invitations as a keynote speaker, jury member for international design competitions, and featured in major publications and exhibitions globally. Though no formal awards are listed, his influence is evident through widespread media coverage and inclusion in collections such as MoMA.

• Keynote Speaker: Rapdasa, Johannesburg (2011)
• Jury Member: iCAT Freeform Challenge (2012), Purmundus Challenge (2012)
• Exhibitions: Solo and group shows in London, Milan, New York, Oslo, Berlin, Helsinki, and Zurich
• Publications: Featured in 1000 New Designs, British Design</> (MoMA), Process, and Simply Material

Dean supervises research students including Nehal Almerbati (PhD) and Michaela Hawes (MA). He has led consultancy projects with industry leaders such as Cookson Precious Metals, EOS GmbH, Renishaw plc, and 3T RPD Ltd, demonstrating strong industry engagement. His FutureFactories studio serves as both a research lab and creative practice, focusing on generative design and digital manufacturing.

Lionel Dean leads the FutureFactories studio, a pioneering initiative in computational and digital design. The studio functions as a hub for innovation, connecting academic research with industrial applications and public exhibitions. It has been showcased internationally, including at EuroMold Frankfurt and the National Centre for Craft and Design.