Whether you're developing tools to advance scientific discovery or building prototypes to reach commercialization milestones, our team is here to help you design, fabricate, and refine your ideas. From additive manufacturing and soft materials to electronics and software development, the IDEA Lab faculty and staff work hand in hand with students to offer extensive capabilities tailored to translational research and entrepreneurial exploration.
We collaborate closely with academic departments, clinical researchers, and innovation-driven entrepreneurs to bring ideas to life. Ready to start a project? We invite you to partner with us and turn your innovation into impact.
Contact Us
Email: SSOE-IDEALab@pitt.edu
Address: 437a Benedum Hall, 3700 Ohara Street
I have used the IDEA lab for a number of projects, and they are great. They work with our researchers to develop feasible designs and build prototypes and always deliver on time and within budget.
Dr. Mark Redfern, IDEA Lab Client
Core Capabilities
FAQs
Project timelines vary based on complexity and scope. Small prototypes or design consultations may take a few weeks, while larger, more complex builds can take months. We’ll work with you to create a realistic schedule that fits your goals, deadlines, and financial constraints.
We can support everything from early-stage concept design to fully functional prototypes. Our capabilities span hardware, software, mobile applications, electronics, embedded systems, additive manufacturing, machining, and soft materials.
Yes! Whether you have a half-finished prototype, a proof-of-concept, or an initial sketch, we can step in to refine and develop your project.
Reach out to our team at SSOE-IDEALab@pitt.edu to set up an initial project meeting. We’ll discuss your goals, assess feasibility, and outline the steps to bring your project to life.
We work with our clients to ensure that existing intellectual property is preserved and we provide clients with information that may be used for disclosures related to new innovations that result from projects.
Absolutely. We encourage collaboration and can integrate your students into the design process. This can give them valuable hands-on experience while helping to advance your project.