Juan Carlos Jeldes

Dr. Juan Carlos Jeldes is a Professor at the School of Architecture and Design at Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso (PUCV), Chile. He holds a PhD in Design from PUC Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and serves as Director of MADLAB & AconcaguaFabLab. With academic activity dating back to 1990, he has developed an extensive career in design education, research, and community engagement.

His educational background includes:

• Doctorate in Design from Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Juan Carlos Jeldes' research focuses on the intersection of design, digital fabrication, and community engagement. His work explores rhizomatic immersion approaches, GeoHumanities, and STEAM education methodologies. He investigates how design can foster conviviality, sustainability, and cultural preservation through spatial interventions and educational practices. His research often bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications in urban contexts, particularly in Valparaíso, Chile.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on digital fabrication technologies, community-based design, and innovative educational approaches. The articles reveal trends toward integrating STEAM education with gender perspectives, developing regional FabLab networks, and exploring rhizomatic approaches to design education and spatial understanding. His work connects architectural theory with practical community applications, showing a consistent focus on how design can address social and environmental challenges.

Juan Carlos Jeldes has supervised numerous undergraduate and graduate students through thesis projects focusing on design, digital fabrication, and community engagement. His work includes significant grant-funded research projects exploring rhizomatic immersion, GeoHumanities, and STEAM education approaches.

As Director of MADLAB & AconcaguaFabLab, he leads initiatives that connect design education with digital fabrication technologies and community development. His lab work emphasizes hands-on learning, technological accessibility, and collaborative design processes that engage with local communities and cultural contexts.