Silvia Barbero

Silvia Barbero is Associate Professor (L.240) at the Department of Architecture and Design (DAD) of the Polytechnic University of Turin. She serves as Vice Rector for Communication and Promotion and contributes to the GEDI Observatory for Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

• Scientific Director for EU Horizon 2020 (2018-2023)
• President of the Systemic Design Association (2018-)
• Editorial roles in journals like Formakademisk and Journal of Cleaner Production

Research Focus: Systemic Design applied to environmental sustainability, circular economy, and territorial development. Her work bridges ecological principles with industrial innovation, addressing challenges in packaging, furniture, and healthcare systems. Key themes include sustainable transitions, co-design methodologies, and cross-cultural comparisons (China-Italy).

Awards:

• ADI Design Index (2016, 2017)
• 5R HERO AWARDS (2013)
• Eco-Efficiency Award (2005)

Teaching & Mentorship: Leads courses in Design for Sustainable and Circular Systems and Systemic Design for Territorial Development. Supervises PhD students researching topics like circular textiles, community care, and sustainable manufacturing.

Projects: Coordinates international initiatives including SYSTOUR (2023-2027), MULTITRACES (2019-2022), and RETRACE (2016-2020). Collaborates with institutions like CNR-IRET and companies through commercial agreements.