Elena Dieckmann

Elena Dieckmann is a Lecturer at the Dyson School of Design Engineering, part of the Faculty of Engineering at Imperial College London. Her research focuses on biomaterials, waste resource conversion, and circular materials design. She is affiliated with the Ocean Plastic Solutions Network and has pioneered the development of feather-based thermal packaging materials under the brand 'pluumo.'

Her research explores the mechanical, thermal, and biodegradation properties of feather-based materials, with applications in packaging, textiles, and construction. Notable contributions include the first feather-based thermal insulation material for cold-chain logistics and sustainable composite materials from waste feathers.

• Awards: Echoing Green Fellowship 2018, Green Alley Award 2018, EU Horizon 2020 SME instruments, and multiple design innovation awards.
• Grants: Climate KIC-Imperial Grant, SHELL LiveWire Award, and Mayor of London Low Carbon Entrepreneur Award.

Her work bridges engineering and sustainability, addressing global challenges in resource efficiency and waste management. She collaborates with industry partners like Aeropowder Ltd to commercialize research findings.