Core Technology
Fundamental advances in optics, photonics, imaging, computing and data science, acoustics and sensing will drive future designs for devices harnessing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).
The University's strengths in key areas—such as freeform optics, computational imaging, audio rendering, body-worn sensors, computation, and mixed technology integration and packaging—are critical building blocks in the technical foundation of AR/VR devices.
Engineering and Applied Sciences
The Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences is one of the nation’s top engineering schools housed in a first-rate research university.
Talented faculty and researchers from several of our programs, departments, and centers are involved in VR/AR research and applications, including:
- Audio and music engineering
- Biomedical engineering
- Computer science
- Electrical and computer engineering
- Institute of Optics
On-Campus VR/AR Resources
- Center for Integrated Research Computer (CIRC)—CIRC provides researchers with the hardware, software, training, and support necessary to use computational and data analytics technology in their research.
- VISTA Collaboratory—A 1,000-square-foot visualization lab equipped with an interactive, tile-display wall that creates an immersive experience. The VISTA Collaboratory is located on the first floor of Carlson Library on the River Campus.
- Two labs harnessing VR technology—The VR lab in Meliora Hall is managed by the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, while the one at the Medical Center is designed for use with patients. Learn more about shared research facilities.