Research Labs






Physical Ergonomics and Biomechanics Lab

0049 Black Engineering

Research done in the Physical Ergonomics and Biomechanics lab (ErgoLab) is in the areas of spine biomechanics and upper extremity biomechanics with a focus on understanding the underlying etiology of workplace injuries and exploring ergonomic intervention effectiveness.

Research initiatives:
– Apply engineering principles to the design, fabrication, in-lab and in-field testing of ergonomic solutions for the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders in the working population
– Employ biomechanical techniques, such as video monitoring, bioelectric signals acquisition and analysis, and kinematic data, to explore the relation between task performance and stresses on the human body

Faculty: Gary Mirka






Augmentation and Training (ATHENA) Lab

0066 Black Engineering

Research in the ATHENA lab focuses on cognitive and physiological engineering for augmenting human performance and understanding human capabilities and is conducted by employing classical and experimental ergonomics, augmented reality, and the application of other cutting-edge technologies. Lab equipment includes biomedical and neurological sensors (EKG, EMG, EEG, HRV, etc.), goniometry, force and moment sensors, and dynamometers

Research initiatives:
– Develop innovative design methods for AR and multi-sensory devices
– Improve tele-robotic and decision support systems
– Apply various biomechanical techniques to improve sports performance
– Create visualization tools to improve battle space awareness
– Exoskeletons for military, law enforcement, and civil training

Faculty: Rick Stone








Adaptive Cognitive Systems Lab

0068 Black Engineering

The Adaptive Cognitive Systems Laboratory (ACSL) focuses on cognitive engineering research issues in the design of joint human-technology systems that adapt to the user, the environment, and the current situation. The goal is to develop design principals and practical guidelines to foster the development of collaborative systems that support human activity in complex domains. Application areas include adaptive automation and adaptive interfaces, human-robotic interaction, interactive learning environments, and decision-support systems.

Faculty: Michael Dorneich

Flexible Electronics and Additive Printing (FEAP) Lab

0086 Black Engineering

The Flexible Electronics and Additive Printing (FEAP) lab specializes in research areas including micro/nano scale fabrication, novel additive manufacturing processes, rapid prototyping methods and tools, and manufacturing systems based on inkjet printing and laser ablation for flexible electronics and optoelectronics. The research includes but not limited to scaffolds fabrication for biomedical applications, laser ablation, real-time monitoring and automation, CAD/CAM systems, 3D printing, topography optimization, multi-material and multi-scale fabrication based on additive printing.

Operations Research and Production Systems Research Lab

The Operations Research and Production Systems (ORPS) research lab conducts research on theoretical and practical aspects of production planning, scheduling, inventory control, supply chains, and sustainable production systems using various operations research methodologies, including optimization, simulation, and stochastic processes.

Faculty: Danial Davarnia, Kris De Brabanter, Qing Li, Jo Min, Sigurdur Olafsson, Sarah Ryan







Rapid Manufacturing and Prototyping Lab

1117 Black Engineering

The Rapid Manufacturing and Prototyping Laboratory (RMPL) contains various rapid prototyping, reverse engineering and computer-controlled manufacturing processes, including two fused deposition modelers, a 3D printer, two laser scanners, a three-axis CNC milling machine, and a four-axis CNC milling machine.

Faculty: Matt Frank, Frank Peters






Wind Energy Manufacturing Lab

1117 Black Engineering

The Wind Energy Manufacturing Lab is a high-bay lab space dedicated to advancing the manufacturing processes for utility-scale wind turbines. Research in the lab focuses on developing methods for cost-effective manufacturing methods, including advanced manufacturing processes, automation technologies, metrology and non-destructive evaluation (NDE).

Faculty: Matt Frank, John Jackman, Frank Peters






Virtual Reality Applications Center

The Virtual Reality Applications Center (VRAC) is an interdisciplinary research center focused at the intersection of humans and technology, aimed broadly at enhancing the productivity and creativity of people. The VRAC’s world-class research infrastructure supports the research of faculty and students representing all seven of ISU’s colleges, as well as the interests of collaborators from several federal agencies and numerous industry partners.

Faculty: Michael Dorneich, Stephen Gilbert

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