12/30/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/30/2025 09:18
A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) celebrated the grand opening of its newly renovated Interdisciplinary Research Lab (IRL) during an open house in September on the University's Mesa, Arizona, campus.
Located on the second floor of Building 5845, the updated lab offers an enhanced environment for faculty- and student-led research across multiple health disciplines. The former lab was repurposed into an innovative, state-of-the art laboratory classroom for student learning.
"Our goal is to provide a shared space with state-of-the-art equipment for faculty and students to conduct high-quality research that improves education and health outcomes," said Kellie Huxel Bliven, PhD, ATC, chair, Interdisciplinary Health Sciences department. "The lab is intentionally interdisciplinary, so projects can bridge clinical practice, education, and translational science."
The IRL, originally established in 2004, houses a mix of instrumentation and support resources, from balance testing and rehabilitation equipment, motion and performance testing tools, ultrasound for musculoskeletal and blood flow testing, and multiple work spaces for group meetings and private testing. Students and faculty have access to technologies such as NeuroComm, EMG, IMUs, GaitLite, and iMotions.
Students interested in research are encouraged to connect with their faculty to learn about ongoing projects that align with their interests. Opportunities include joining active research teams, serving as research assistants, or completing mentored capstone and scholarship work.
"We're excited to be in our new home and grateful to the many people who helped make it possible," Dr. Bliven said. "Whether you're a seasoned investigator or a student taking your first steps, we're here to help you ask good questions, gather trustworthy data, and share findings that make a difference."
For tours, project inquiries, or collaborations, please contact Dr. Bliven at [email protected].