Patrick Pradel

Dr. Patrick Pradel is a Senior Lecturer in Digital Design and Manufacturing at Loughborough University, serving as Programme Leader for the MSc in Integrated Industrial Design. He holds a PhD from Politecnico di Milano (2009), an MSc in Design & Engineering (2008), and a BA in Product Design (2002). His research focuses on Additive Manufacturing (AM), digital fabrication, and design education. He leads major projects like the EPSRC-funded UK Design for AM Network and the AHRC-funded When Design Never Ends, exploring AM's impact on design practice and education.

• Education: BA (2002), MSc (2008), PhD (2009) from Politecnico di Milano

Research interests include AM's disruptive potential in product design, industrial applications of 3D printing, and bridging gaps in DfAM education. His work addresses AM's technical limitations and advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration to advance adoption across sectors. He co-leads a virtual exhibition on evolving design practices and collaborates with industry partners like Grundfos and Valcucine.

Recent articles highlight AM's role in gamified e-wallets, bio-composite viability, and pedagogical methods. His projects emphasize AM's role in personalized products and sustainable manufacturing.

• Awards: Principal Investigator roles in EPSRC/AHRC grants reflect his leadership in design innovation
• Grants: EPSRC Network Design for AM, Royal Society Exchange Programme

Led the development of product design programs at the University of Nottingham Ningbo and contributed to Loughborough's DDF Research Group. His future work aims to integrate emerging technologies into design education and industrial practices.