UCLA's Cutting-Edge Research Laboratories: A Comprehensive Overview

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a hub of groundbreaking research across a multitude of disciplines. Its diverse array of laboratories are at the forefront of scientific and technological advancement, addressing critical challenges and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. This article provides an in-depth look at some of UCLA's most innovative research labs, highlighting their focus areas, key projects, and contributions to their respective fields.

Active Materials Laboratory

Directed by Gregory P., the Active Materials Laboratory focuses on understanding and utilizing materials with coupled responses, such as piezoelectric materials, magnetostrictive materials, shape memory alloys, and fiber-optic sensors. The lab is equipped to both manufacture and test these materials, with facilities for fabricating magnetostrictive composites and thin film shape memory alloys. Testing active material systems is performed on one of four servo-hydraulic load frames in the lab. This research has implications for various applications, including sensors, actuators, and energy harvesting.

Advanced Space Systems and Propulsion Laboratory

The Advanced Space Systems and Propulsion Laboratory is dedicated to developing innovative and cost-effective approaches to space exploration. The Laboratory examines breakthrough propulsion concepts, including beamed energy propulsion, solar sailing and explores fundamental physics of travel in space. The Laboratory also leads several mission studies aimed at transforming the way space is explored today. By exploring these novel technologies, the lab aims to make space exploration more accessible and efficient.

Anatomical Engineering Group

Led by Tyler R., the Anatomical Engineering Group researches anatomics, the coengineering of body and machine in pursuit of synergistic bionic performance. The research combines surgical and mechanical design to codevelop body and machine. This interdisciplinary approach seeks to create advanced bionic systems that seamlessly integrate with the human body, enhancing physical capabilities and improving quality of life.

Autonomous Vehicle Systems Integration Laboratory (AVSIL)

Jason L. heads AVSIL, a testbed for design, building, evaluation, and testing of hardware instrumentation and coordination algorithms for multiple vehicle autonomous systems. AVSIL contains a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulator-designed and built at UCLA-that allows for real-time, systems-level tests of two formation control computer systems in a laboratory environment, using the Interstate Electronics Corporation GPS Satellite Constellation Simulator. This research contributes to the development of robust and reliable autonomous systems for various applications.

Biomechatronics Laboratory

The Biomechatronics Laboratory, under the direction of Veronica J., is dedicated to improving quality of life by enhancing the functionality of artificial hands and their control in human-machine systems. The research is advancing the design and control of human-machine systems as well as autonomous robotic systems. By developing more intuitive and responsive prosthetic devices, the lab aims to restore lost function and improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. The Bionics Laboratory performs research at the interface between robotics, biological systems, and medicine.

Boiling Heat Transfer Laboratory

Vijay K. leads the Boiling Heat Transfer Laboratory, which performs experimental and computational studies of phase-change phenomena. This research is crucial for optimizing heat transfer processes in various applications, including power generation, electronics cooling, and chemical processing.

Center for Translational Applications of Nanoscale Multiferroic Systems (TANMS)

Directed by Gregory P., TANMS is a multi-institutional engineering research center (ERC) focused on research, technology translation, and education associated with magnetism on the small scale. The TANMS vision is to develop a fundamentally new approach that couples electricity to magnetism using engineered nanoscale multiferroic elements, to enable increased energy efficiency, reduced physical size, and increased power output in consumer electronics. This new approach overcomes scaling limitations present Oersted’s magnetism control discovery of 1820. This research has the potential to revolutionize various industries, including electronics, data storage, and energy.

Chen’s Intelligence Laboratory

Chen’s Intelligence Laboratory focuses on overcoming the limitations of current computer systems in handling complex data and dynamic environments. Computers have led to an information revolution and artificial intelligent systems that simulate the learning functions of the human brain. The world’s fastest supercomputer, Summit, may have a computing capacity comparable to that of the human brain. However, Summit consumes the equivalent power of 7000 homes (~15 MW), and the brain only consumes a power of a light bulb (~20 W). Computers execute algorithms on physically separated logic and memory units in digital serial mode, which fundamentally restrains computers from handling “big data” efficiently in complex dynamic environments, and limits the developments of emerging intelligent systems such as self-piloted unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The lab's research aims to develop more energy-efficient and adaptable intelligent systems.

Collaborative Center for Aerospace Sciences (CCAS)

Ann R. leads CCAS, a multi- and trans-disciplinary research center focused on fundamental and applied basic studies relevant to aerospace systems. Research projects that broadly span the computational and experimental arenas are conducted at UCLA and at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/RQR) at Edwards Air Force Base, about 90 miles northeast of campus. This collaboration fosters innovation in aerospace technology and addresses critical challenges in the field.

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Complex Fluids and Interfacial Physics Laboratory

H. leads the Complex Fluids and Interfacial Physics Laboratory is multidisciplinary, with areas of research ranging from rheology of biofluids to energy storage. This broad research scope allows the lab to contribute to diverse fields, including biomedicine, energy, and materials science.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Laboratory

The Computational Fluid Dynamics Laboratory studies a variety of fluid mechanics problems with research interests in the areas of computational fluid dynamics, flow control, data science, network theory, and unsteady aerodynamics. By developing and applying advanced computational techniques, the lab aims to improve our understanding of fluid behavior and optimize fluid-based systems.

CyCLab

CyCLab investigates the neuronal mechanisms for information processing and learning. The laboratory offers an environment for synergistic integration of design and manufacturing. This research has implications for understanding the brain and developing new technologies for artificial intelligence and neuroengineering.

Dynamic Nucleic Acid Systems Laboratory

The Dynamic Nucleic Acid Systems Laboratory develops mathematical models and experimental platforms to build adaptive and dynamic biological devices using DNA, RNA, and proteins. This research contributes to the field of synthetic biology and has potential applications in medicine, biotechnology, and nanotechnology.

Energy and Propulsion Research Laboratory

Under the direction of Ann R., the Energy and Propulsion Research Laboratory applies modem diagnostic methods and computational tools to the development of advanced rocket and airbreathing propulsion as well as energy systems. This research is crucial for developing more efficient and sustainable energy and propulsion technologies.

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Flexible Research Group

Jonathan B. leads the Flexible Research Group is dedicated to the design and fabrication of flexible structures, mechanisms, and materials that achieve extraordinary capabilities. This research has implications for various applications, including robotics, wearable electronics, and aerospace.

Fusion Science and Technology Center

Mohamed A. leads the Fusion Science and Technology Center includes experimental facilities for conducting research in fusion science and engineering, and multiple scientific disciplines in thermofluids, thermomechanics, heat/mass transfer, and materials interactions. These are just a few areas of research we are interested in. This research is crucial for developing fusion energy as a clean and sustainable energy source.

H-Lab

H-Lab is focused on understanding and engineering fundamental transport phenomena and new materials for wide applications including energy conversion, storage, aerospace, electronics, thermal management, micro/nano sensors, and biomedical devices. This broad research scope allows the lab to contribute to diverse fields and address critical challenges in energy and technology.

Hypersonics and Computational Aerodynamics Group

The Hypersonics and Computational Aerodynamics Group primarily focuses on fundamental physics-based research of hypersonic flows using advanced numerical tools; and application of discovered fundamental knowledge to real-world aerospace systems, such as development of hypersonic planes and space vehicles. This research is crucial for developing advanced aerospace vehicles and technologies.

Integrated Urban Solutions for Food, Energy, and Water Management (NRT-INFEWS)

NRT-INFEWS: Integrated Urban Solutions for Food, Energy, and Water Management combines research, education, and communication training to educate future leaders towards delivering comprehensive solutions to food, energy, and water systems (FEWS) challenges in urban systems under the pressures of global climate change. This program is unique in its focus on addressing the critical interdependence among food, energy, and water in the urban environment. We propose to train students in cutting-edge science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) research and education as well as to analyze scientific and technological advancements from economic, policy, and legal points of view. This interdisciplinary program aims to address the complex challenges of urban sustainability.

Laser Spectroscopy and Gas Dynamics Laboratory

Raymond M. leads the Laser Spectroscopy and Gas Dynamics Laboratory conducts research driven by applications in propulsion and energy, with extensions to health and environment. Laboratory activities are united by a core focus in experimental thermofluids and applied spectroscopy. This research has implications for various applications, including combustion, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostics.

Lin Lab

Lin Lab research looks at developing 3D biological tissues that mimic the geometric structure, mechanical properties, and functionality of human organs. Major research focuses include development of live cell imaging tools, cell mechanics measurements, and tissue manufacturing methods. This research contributes to the field of tissue engineering and has potential applications in regenerative medicine and drug discovery.

Mechanics of Soft Materials Laboratory

The Mechanics of Soft Materials Laboratory investigates the fundamental physics and mechanics of soft materials, such as their constitutive relation, nonlinear deformation, instability, and fracture. This research has implications for various applications, including biomedicine, robotics, and materials science.

Mechatronics and Controls Laboratory

The Mechatronics and Controls Laboratory conducts research in theory and innovation in dynamic systems, controls, mechatronics, and robotics. It creates high-performance systems with novel sensors, actuators, and real-time digital signal processing and embedded control. This research contributes to the development of advanced robotic systems and control technologies.

Micro and Nano Manufacturing Laboratory

The Micro and Nano Manufacturing Laboratory explores physical phenomena unique in submillimeter scale, and utilizes microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technologies to advance important knowledge and create useful applications. Surface tension is one such phenomenon, which led to cutting-edge discoveries and revolutionary applications, some commercialized. Research themes include electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD), electrodewetting, droplets and bubbles, and superhydrophobic surfaces; and application areas include droplet (digital) microfluidics, micro fuel cells, and drag reduction of liquid flows. Typical research starts with a novel concept, and completes with application devices of commercial implication. This research contributes to the development of advanced micro and nanoscale devices for various applications.

Modeling of Complex Thermal Systems Laboratory

Adrienne G. leads the Modeling of Complex Thermal Systems Laboratory addresses a variety of systems in which heat transfer plays an important role. Thermal aspects of these systems are coupled with other physical phenomena such as mechanical or electrical behavior. This interdisciplinary approach allows the lab to address complex thermal challenges in various applications.

Morrin-Gier-Martinelli Heat Transfer Memorial Laboratory

Laurent G. leads the Morrin-Gier-Martinelli Heat Transfer Memorial Laboratory is engaged in a broad range of interdisciplinary research projects at the intersection of interfacial and transport phenomena, radiation transfer, material science, and biology for sustainable solar energy conversion; waste heat energy harvesting; electrical energy storage; and energy efficient buildings. The laboratory features state-of-the-art equipment for material synthesis and characterization such as glove boxes and high-temperature furnaces, potentiostats, calorimeters, and thermal conductivity analyzers. It is also equipped with a full set of instruments for optical characterization of solids, liquids, and suspensions from ultraviolet to infrared wavelengths (e.g., spectrometers, lasers, and detection systems). This research contributes to the development of sustainable energy technologies.

MTSL

MTSL is focused on heat and mass transfer phenomena at the nano- to macro-scales. This research has implications for various applications, including energy, electronics, and chemical processing.

Nanoscale Materials and Devices Laboratory

The Nanoscale Materials and Devices Laboratory explores new methods of controlling light, heat and electric current flow with nanostructured and architectured materials for sustainable energy and communications applications. In the context of sustainable energy the laboratory examines new structures for solar light trapping, energy conversion, radiative cooling and greenhouse gas mitigation. In the area of communications we aim to create new optoelectronic architectures for ultrafast computing. This research contributes to the development of advanced materials and devices for sustainable energy and communications.

Nanoscale Transport Research Group

Timothy S. leads the Nanoscale Transport Research Group works on a broad range of problems, primarily involving transport processes by electrons, phonons, photons, and fluids. It seeks to solve problems with high importance to applications in energy transport, conversion, and storage, that are relevant to major industrial segments (aerospace, micro/nanoelectronics, and sensors). The laboratory solves these problems through a holistic, balanced approach that spans nanomaterial synthesis, basic material characterization and modeling, and functional characterization and simulation. This research contributes to the development of advanced technologies for energy and electronics.

Optofluidics Systems Laboratory

The Optofluidics Systems Laboratory develops heterogeneously integrated functional devices and systems for biomedical applications. This research has implications for various applications, including diagnostics, drug delivery, and personalized medicine.

Robotics and Mechanisms Laboratory (RoMeLa)

Laurent G. and Dennis W. lead RoMeLa is a facility for robotics research and education with an emphasis on studying humanoid robots and novel mobile robot locomotion strategies. Research is in the areas of robot locomotion and manipulation, soft actuators, platform design, kinematics and mechanisms, and autonomous systems. RoMeLa is active in research-based international robotics competitions, winning numerous prizes including third place in the DARPA Urban Challenge. The laboratory also took first place in the RoboCup international autonomous robot soccer competition (kid-size and adult-size humanoid divisions), and was world champion five times in a row. This research contributes to the development of advanced robotic systems for various applications.

Scifacturing Laboratory

The Scifacturing Laboratory furnishes a creative, interdisciplinary platform for science-driven manufacturing (scifacturing) as the next level of manufacturing. It seeks to enable application of physics and chemistry to empower breakthroughs in manufacturing. The laboratory links molecular, nano-, and micro-scale knowledge to scalable processes/systems in manufacturing and materials processing. This research aims to revolutionize manufacturing by integrating scientific principles into the manufacturing process.

Sensors and Instrumentation Laboratory

Robert T. leads the Sensors and Instrumentation Laboratory focuses on the design, fabrication, modeling, and testing of microscale sensors, notably coriolis vibratory gyroscopes. This research contributes to the development of advanced sensor technologies for various applications.

SOFIA Laboratory

Jeffrey D. leads the SOFIA Laboratory explores a wide variety of phenomena that occur in fluid flows in nature and technology. This research has implications for various applications, including environmental science, engineering, and medicine.

Smart Grid Energy Research Center (SMERC)

SMERC performs research; creates innovations; and demonstrates advanced Internet-of-things, sense-and-control technologies, and data-enabled machine learning to enable development of the next-generation electric utility grid-the smart grid. SMERC also furnishes thought leadership through its ESmart Consortium between utilities, government, policy makers, technology providers, electric vehicle manufacturers, energy technology companies, Department of Energy research laboratories, and universities, so as to collectively work on envisioning, planning, and executing the smart grid of the future. This grid will enable integration of renewable energy sources. It will also reduce losses; improve efficiencies; increase grid flexibility; allow for integration of electric and autonomous vehicles; reduce power outages; allow for competitive energy pricing; and overall become more responsive to market, consumer, and societal needs. This research is crucial for developing a more sustainable and efficient energy grid.

Structures-Computer Interaction Laboratory

The Structures-Computer Interaction Laboratory employs a data-driven approach to the modeling and design of programmable smart structures. This research has implications for various applications, including civil engineering, aerospace, and robotics.

The UCLA Heat Lab: Understanding and Addressing Thermal Inequality

The UCLA Heat Lab, founded in 2020 and led by Bharat Venkat, an associate professor with appointments in history, anthropology and at the UCLA Institute for Society and Genetics, is an interdisciplinary research collective that explores how heat affects people - especially those who are most vulnerable to it. From the outset, the lab has been deeply student-focused.

“This style of lab is very distinctive. These kinds of interdisciplinary, undergraduate-focused labs that integrate mentorship, pedagogy and research - it’s a unique model that really allows students to contribute meaningfully to both scholarly conversations and the world,” Venkat said. “The Heat Lab has become a model of thinking about how you might do interesting research that genuinely engages undergraduates and offers a chance to mentor them. Many of the Heat Lab’s projects are student-driven and deeply connected to the needs and concerns of the broader community.

Student-Led Research and Community Engagement

For Aishwarya Nair, a fourth-year molecular, cell and developmental biology major, her question was rooted in medicine: How do pharmaceuticals affect thermoregulation - the body’s way of maintaining its internal temperature - under extreme heat? By analyzing Medicare data, she and her team found that elderly populations face a higher risk of heat vulnerability because they are more likely to be on medications for chronic illnesses.

“I think that’s one of the nice things about these lab spaces - they open doors and encourage people to think differently,” Nair said. That intersectional, interdisciplinary approach is core to the Heat Lab’s identity.

In another student-led project, Heat Lab researchers launched a study in 2023 that examined working conditions inside L.A. food trucks. Using heat sensors and conducting interviews, undergraduates uncovered dangerously high interior temperatures that posed serious risks to workers.

Storytelling and Public Education through "Hot Takes"

It’s not just about research, however. It’s about storytelling and public education, too. That’s where the lab’s education team and its student-produced podcast, “Hot Takes,” comes in.

“Heat is approached very passively, like, ‘Oh, I guess it’s hot out now,’” said Natalie Gurzeler, a third-year human biology and society major and one of the podcast’s producers. “Coming into college, I had this really clear-cut image of research as standing in a wet lab, wearing goggles, working with pipettes,” she said. “But research is so much more than that. That kind of inclusion and mentorship is a guiding principle for the lab.

“UCLA is such a big place, and finding your niche can be hard,” said Shimona Gupta, a third-year human biology and society major. Gupta is part of two Heat Lab projects. The first is a data analysis effort examining Cal/OSHA data to better understand heat-related violations throughout the state.

“One solution never fits everyone,” Gupta said. “That’s what the Heat Lab has taught me, that solutions need to be tailored to the communities you're working with.

“It’s a question of who is most exposed and who isn’t - and why we have these inequalities,” he said. “Understanding the impacts and implications of heat is interdisciplinary by nature. Heat is more than a temperature - it’s a lens through which we can examine systems of inequality, resilience and care.

Addressing the Broader Impacts of Heat

As global warming worsens, heat increasingly impacts people's daily lives - influencing health, behavior, and more. But, we often aren’t very conscious about heat and knowledge of it doesn’t get shared beyond academia and specialized fields. In this Hot Takes special mini-episode, we take a look at the concerning weather events of 2025, and how they led to the heartbreaking destruction within the Los Angeles community due to the wildfires that ignited in early January.

Ep 6 - Getting the Scoop on Metropolitan Heat with Dr. This episode, join us as we learn more about heat through a sensorial and historical lens from our guest Dr. Kara Schlichting. Through her research, Dr. There is a critical need for more in-depth environmental curricula to prepare students for the climate-impacted world they'll soon inherit.

Ep 4 - Dismantling Carceral Ecologies with Dr. Although many of us are familiar with mass incarceration and environmental injustice as separate issues, we often don’t put the two together. Through his Carceral Ecologies lab, Dr. Many of us love food trucks, but the food we enjoy often conceal a hidden reality-the workers enduring extreme heat. This is thermal inequality, the idea that some people bear the heat so others don't have to. Heat is a universal experience, but in a world where climate change pushes temperatures higher every year, it’s becoming deadly.

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