The Virtual Experiences Simulation Lab
At the Virtual Experiences Simulation Lab (VESL), we provide a unique intersection of interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on, immersive learning. Unlike other programs that emphasize future-thinking in abstract terms, the VESL grounds innovation in real-world, applied research and award-winning immersive media projects. We equip students with practical, job-related experiences and future-ready skills through exploration and design-based research methodologies that directly lead to impactful, real-world outcomes.
While others may imagine the future, the VESL builds it. Our students, from 16 diverse majors, aren’t just creators or inventors—they are prepared for careers in emerging industries like extended reality (XR) and immersive technologies, which are shaping global industries today. We bridge the gap between academia and industry, providing students the opportunity to develop future careers that may not yet exist, all while supporting faculty with cutting-edge resources for immersive media development.
At the VESL, we foster curiosity and turn it into actionable, impactful innovation that is recognized globally. Our award-winning climate change, education, and wellness projects illustrate our commitment to practical innovation and sustainable impact.
What We Believe in at the VESL
Immersive Media
At the VESL, we focus on creating engaging immersive experiences. Our hands-on, project-based learning empowers students to apply their skills in real-world contexts, ensuring meaningful engagement with the material.
Applied Research and Design-Based Methodologies
We adopt a design-based research approach to ensure our projects are both innovative and grounded in practical applications. We prioritize research that leads to tangible outcomes in educational and societal contexts.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
We promote collaboration among faculty and students from diverse academic backgrounds, cultivating a culture of creativity and innovation. This interdisciplinary focus enhances problem-solving and results in comprehensive solutions.
Skill Development and Career Preparation
We are dedicated to equipping students with the technical and soft skills necessary for emerging careers in immersive technologies. Our hands-on projects and practicums provide vital experience that prepares students to succeed in a competitive job market.
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
VESL is committed to responsible innovation, emphasizing ethical considerations in developing emerging technologies.
Community Engagement and Outreach
We actively engage with the Miami community through workshops, events, and collaborations with K-12 schools, government agencies, non-profits, and industry partners.
Creative Storytelling and Digital Narrative
Our lab explores the power of storytelling within immersive environments, focusing on how narrative design can enhance quality of life and enrich educational experiences.
Future-Ready Innovation
VESL prepares students for the rapidly changing landscape of technology by emphasizing future thinking. We encourage critical thinking about emerging trends and their implications for society.
Opportunities for Students
At the VESL, students gain practical, real-world experience that prepares them for dynamic careers in immersive media. Through hands-on projects in areas like technical artistry, game and simulation development, and UI/UX design, students develop industry-standard skills while collaborating with peers and faculty.
As they advance, students can earn paid positions in the lab, building a professional portfolio that gives them a distinct edge when entering the workforce. By graduation, VESL students will have the skills, experience, and connections to succeed in the tech industry or build their dream startup.
Roles for Students
Technical Artists, Modeling, and Animation
Our Technical Artists work with industry-standard software such as Blender, Maya, and Unity to bring immersive experiences to life. They transform research projects and educational concepts into engaging, explorable virtual environments that are both skillfully designed and visually compelling.
Game Engine Development
Utilizing the Unity game engine, this unit codes and develops immersive simulations. They build functional features and optimize graphic aesthetics, ensuring each project delivers a seamless and dynamic immersive experience that supports both research and learning outcomes.
Marketing and Digital Storytelling
This unit collaborates across all teams to effectively communicate the impact of the VESL's projects. They craft compelling digital narratives, promote our lab’s achievements, and foster a sense of community through engaging events and outreach initiatives.
Quality Assurance and User Testing
Responsible for ensuring project excellence, this unit runs rigorous testing sessions throughout the development process, providing feedback and identifying issues. Their work ensures that each immersive experience is polished, user-friendly, and meets the highest quality standards.
User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX)
The UI/UX unit focuses on designing intuitive and visually appealing interfaces that enhance user interaction. By blending functional design with immersive engagement, they create seamless experiences that captivate users and advance the objectives of each project.
How to apply: Fill out this form.
Opportunities for Industry Partners
The Virtual Experiences Simulation Lab (VESL) offers industry partners a unique opportunity to collaborate on cutting-edge projects that bridge research, technology, and immersive media. By partnering with the VESL, companies can:
- Talent Development and Recruitment: Gain direct access to a pool of talented students skilled in technical artistry, game engine development, UI/UX design, and digital storytelling. Industry partners can participate in recruitment events, internships, or mentorship programs, ensuring they connect with the next generation of innovators ready to enter the workforce.
- Collaborate on innovative projects: Work alongside interdisciplinary teams of students and faculty to develop immersive solutions in areas like extended reality (XR), simulation, and AI development.
- Access top talent: Engage with highly skilled students, providing a pipeline for future hires.
- Gain insights from emerging research: Leverage the VESL’s design-based research to explore new technologies and methodologies that can be applied to real-world industry challenges.
- Sponsor projects and events: Support the lab’s initiatives by sponsoring specific projects or participating in events. This will give your brand visibility within a forward-thinking academic environment.
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