Penn State Virtual/Augmented Reality Lab - VAR Lab
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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?
In celebration of America 250, we're proud to share one of our most meaningful projects to date: a 3D digital twin of the Liberty Bell.
By combining advanced 3D scanning technology with immersive digital experiences, this project helps preserve one of America's most recognizable symbols while making it more accessible for education and research. What was once experienced only in person can now be explored in detail from anywhere.
This project represents the power of emerging technology to preserve our shared history and create new opportunities for learning and discovery. We're incredibly grateful to everyone who made this collaboration possible, a special thank you to Lenovo, Faro, Creaform, PolyWorks, Matterport, National Park Service, the City of Philadelphia, and Senator Dan Laughlin
Explore the interactive experience and learn more about the project:
http://var.psu.edu/libertybell
Some opportunities are too exciting to keep under wraps.
Here’s another glimpse of a project our team has been working on behind the scenes, one that brought us face-to-face with a piece of American history.
We’re not ready to share the full story just yet, but trust us... it’ll be worth the wait.
Join us tomorrow for the full reveal!
06/22/2026
Proud to see part of our team featured on this podcast! Check out the episode to hear her insights on this important topic.
On the new episode of the “Behrend Talks” podcast, Chancellor Ralph Ford talks with Bibiana Mayer Steckel about her Fulbright experience in the Virtual/Augmented Reality Lab, where she studied the use of VR technology to connect with children who have autism.
To listen, click the link in the comments.
06/17/2026
a Pennsylvania license plate✅
a packed schedule✅
a project we can’t fully talk about yet✅
But let’s just say this one rings a little different.
Stay tuned for more hints about this exciting project!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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