Penn State Virtual/Augmented Reality Lab - VAR Lab

Penn State Virtual/Augmented Reality Lab - VAR Lab Email or visit our website and follow us on Instagram and TikTok .

VAR Lab (The Emerging Technologies Hub) provides students with the opportunity to explore, research, and implement emerging technologies into the world around us. VAR Lab’s Mission:
While our mission will always rest on the foundation of enhancing the learning environment of any client with whom we work, we are currently focused on four key initiatives:

(1) integrating immersive technologies into

educational experiences

(2) digital preservation and creation (e.g., creating 3D models of structures that no longer exist, scanning historical sites and artifacts, even digital crime scene preservation)

(3) promoting mental health and well-being through digital initiatives, with a specific aim to increase the accessibility, affordability, and availability of mental health services

(4) addressing training gaps in the workplace (e.g., virtual training simulations)

Want to know more?

Last week some of the VAR Lab team had the opportunity to speak to a computer programming class at Erie High School. Jus...
03/23/2026

Last week some of the VAR Lab team had the opportunity to speak to a computer programming class at Erie High School. Justin, Jaime, Morgan, and Mohammed, pictured here, were able to share about the development of the Landing Place app, an AI-powered mental health tool. From coding to collaboration, the students got a look at real-world tech in action. Thanks to Erie High and Luke Wilmoth for the great conversation!

Recently at the VAR Lab, we used an Artec Space Spider structured light scanner to create a high resolution 3D scan of a...
03/18/2026

Recently at the VAR Lab, we used an Artec Space Spider structured light scanner to create a high resolution 3D scan of a wolf spider, supporting research at Behrend. With a specimen provided by Dr. Beaty and measurements conducted by Dr. Galiffa, this project helps explore how math and technology can improve ecological modeling, like estimating how many offspring a female wolf spider can carry.

This highlights how tools like 3D Scanning and digital modeling can combine disciplines and advance both mathematical and biological research.

Research in Progress: EEG & Immersive Virtual RealityAs part of her Fulbright research at the VAR Lab, Bibiana is leadin...
02/26/2026

Research in Progress: EEG & Immersive Virtual Reality

As part of her Fulbright research at the VAR Lab, Bibiana is leading a project focused on understanding brain activity during immersive virtual reality experiences.

Together with the help of Dr. Shelton and Dr. Edwards, and with the support of Maya Alhasan, the team is investigating best practices for EEG data collection in VR environments using the BIOPAC EEG cap and AcqKnowledge software.

Exciting work ahead as we continue integrating neuroscience and immersive technologies!

Student Researcher Spotlight✨:Today we’re highlighting Remi, swipe to see some photos of the projects he’s been working ...
02/17/2026

Student Researcher Spotlight✨:
Today we’re highlighting Remi, swipe to see some photos of the projects he’s been working on!
Great work Remi!

✨Visiting Scholar Spotlight! ✨We are excited to highlight Bibiana’s work!
01/21/2026

✨Visiting Scholar Spotlight! ✨
We are excited to highlight Bibiana’s work!

The VAR Lab would like to extend a huge thank you to the James R. Meehl Innovation Commons for their generous donation o...
01/07/2026

The VAR Lab would like to extend a huge thank you to the James R. Meehl Innovation Commons for their generous donation of a 3D printer!
This new addition will help bring ideas to life and support hands on learning and innovation. We’re excited to see what our students will build next!

Wishing everyone a happy holiday!🎄- the VAR Lab
12/25/2025

Wishing everyone a happy holiday!🎄
- the VAR Lab

Meet Mohammed, one of the VAR Lab’s app developers bringing projects to life! We are proud to highlight Mohammed’s work!...
12/19/2025

Meet Mohammed, one of the VAR Lab’s app developers bringing projects to life!
We are proud to highlight Mohammed’s work!

Celebrating another year of learning, growth, and teamwork at the VAR Lab holiday party. Grateful for this crew!Such a f...
12/12/2025

Celebrating another year of learning, growth, and teamwork at the VAR Lab holiday party. Grateful for this crew!

Such a fun time spent with some of our VAR Lab team!

The other day Dr. Shelton and Remi used a structured light scanner to 3D scan the replica of the Liberty Bell in AMIC. T...
12/10/2025

The other day Dr. Shelton and Remi used a structured light scanner to 3D scan the replica of the Liberty Bell in AMIC.

This was a project with Jon Young at University Park as part of their research exploring frequencies based on the bell’s metal thickness.

VAR Lab team photo!Thankful for this team and all the work they do for us.
11/14/2025

VAR Lab team photo!
Thankful for this team and all the work they do for us.

Address

Penn State Behrend
Erie, PA
16563

Website

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