USF opens lab aimed at providing military solutions

The University of South Florida opened a new lab aimed at providing quick, innovative solutions to the different challenges facing the U.S. Department of Defense.

Managed by USF’s Institute of Applied Engineering, the new Rapid Experimentation Lab provides a unique, collaborative space to rapidly test concepts.

The lab is a part of a five-year, $85 million contract with the Department of Defense. USF faculty and student engineers will not just utilize the 8,000-square-foot facility but also partners in the Department of Defense and private industry, who are working to support missions.

The lab houses various equipment including electrical and mechanical computer design and analysis tools, communications networks to support testing, electronics and circuit boards, as well as manufacturing technology.

“Our new lab will further enhance the University of South Florida’s focus on developing technologies and providing innovative solutions that address critical global and national security challenges,” says Rhea Law, president of USF. “This facility will provide research opportunities for our faculty, hands-on learning experiences for our students and help grow important partnerships with governmental agencies and private industry.”

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