What is the Natural Fiber Hub?
Utah State University is a recognized leader in fiber sciences and advanced materials. The Natural Fiber Hub will serve as a premier research, education, and industry collaboration hub, pioneering advancements in sustainable and high-performance natural fiber materials.
The Natural Fiber Hub collaborates with academic networks, global experts, government agencies, and industry leaders to push the boundaries of fiber research. This initiative will position Utah State University at the forefront of natural fiber innovation, benefiting businesses, consumers, and the environment.
Why Natural Fibers Matter
Natural fibers are revolutionizing industries by offering renewable, biodegradable, and high-performance alternatives to synthetic materials.
The fiber hub will focus on key fibers, including wool, hemp, cotton, spider silk, and hagfish proteins, addressing critical challenges such as:
- Sustainability: Reducing environmental impact and promoting renewable materials.
- Material Performance: Enhancing strength, durability, and functionality.
- Industry Innovation: Driving new applications in textiles, construction, medical devices, and more.
Natural Fiber Summit
Hosted by the Natural Fiber Hub at Utah State University, the Natural Fiber Summit is a premier gathering of researchers, industry leaders, and innovators dedicated to advancing sustainable and high-performance natural materials. The summit offers a unique opportunity to hear from government, industry, and academic experts at the forefront of natural fiber innovation, with a focus on key materials such as wool, hemp, cotton, spider silk, and hagfish proteins.
The event also features a poster session showcasing research and student projects that explore innovative applications for natural fibers—offering a platform to share ideas, build connections, and inspire future breakthroughs.
Where: Utah State University
When: September 16, 2025 | 12:00 - 5:00pm
RSVP
Key Faculty
Dr. Justin Jones
Leads research on biomaterials, specializing in spider silk and hagfish proteins for advanced fiber applications. Collaborates with the Department of Defense and many other partners to develop high-performance materials.
Dr. Chad Page
Focused on expanding wool processing facilities at USU to enhance regional industry capabilities.
Dr. Kyle Moor
Collaborates with Natural Fiber Welding to assess the environmental impact of sustainable textiles.
Dr. Julie Lamarra
Integrates NASA technology into product design coursework, helping students commercialize aerospace materials for outdoor and sports applications.
Dr. Zak Konakis
Exploring partnerships with industry to develop natural fiber testing and certification programs.
Mark Larese-Casanova
Expert in sustainability and soft goods design, leading projects with industry and a specialist in soft goods construction.
Dr. Bruce Bugbee
Renowned specialist in hemp and medical cannabis research, partnering with the USDA on sustainable material development.
Dr. Elizabeth Vargis
Researching hagfish protein fibers for medical devices and implants to enhance biocompatibility.
Dr. Srishti Banerji
Leads research on hempcrete as a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete, backed by USDA funding.
Dr. Troy Allan
Expertise in wool industry education and rural economic development. Operated one of Utah's last wool mini mills.
Chase Anderson
Builds collaborative partnerships between OPDD students, faculty, and outdoor product industries.
Collaboration
Through cutting-edge research, workforce development, and industry-driven collaborations,partners can:
- Gain access to breakthrough materials and next-generation fiber technologies.
- Work with leading faculty experts and research teams.
- Develop custom solutions tailored to industry needs.
- Contribute to the future of sustainable manufacturing and product innovation.
Join us in shaping the future of natural fiber innovation! For collaboration inquiries, contact: chase.anderson@usu.edu