Research Labs

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    Physical Ergonomics and Biomechanics (ErgoLab) 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.

    Faculty researcher: Gary Mirka

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    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

    Faculty researcher: Richard Stone

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    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 researcher: Michael Dorneich

    Visit the ACSL website

  • 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 researchers: Danial DavarniaKris De BrabanterQing LiJo MinSigurdur OlafssonSarah Ryan

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    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 researcher: Matt FrankFrank Peters

    Visit the RMPL website

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    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 DorneichStephen Gilbert

    Vist the VRAC website