Becoming a Scientist is an immersive Virtual Reality educational simulation designed to democratize access to scientific research and laboratory techniques. Our mission is to make research more accessible for students at all education levels, from elementary school to graduate studies, by creating interactive experiences that bring real laboratory experiments into virtual environments.
Through partnerships with UCLA researchers and students, we showcase authentic laboratory techniques and experiments, making complex scientific concepts tangible and engaging. This project specifically targets underrepresented communities in Los Angeles, providing equitable access to STEM education and research experiences.
🎓 Multi-Level Education
Content adapted for all education levels from K-12 to graduate studies
🔬 Authentic Experiments
Real laboratory techniques from UCLA research labs
🤝 Interactive Learning
Hands-on virtual experiments with immediate feedback
🌟 Community Focus
Designed specifically for underrepresented Los Angeles communities
Development Platform: Unity Engine
Programming Language: C#
Hardware: Oculus VR Headset
Target Audience: Students from elementary to graduate level
Content Focus: Biomedical research techniques and scientific methodology
July 2021
Project Initiation
Initial concept development and research into VR educational applications. Began partnerships with UCLA researchers to identify key laboratory techniques to showcase.
2022
Core Development
Built foundational VR environment and implemented first laboratory experiments. Focused on molecular biology and cell culture techniques.
2023
Content Expansion
Added neuroscience research methods and data analysis modules. Began community outreach programs in Los Angeles.
2024-Present
Ongoing Development
Continuous content updates, user feedback integration, and expansion to additional research techniques and educational modules.
Target Communities:
Underrepresented areas in Los Angeles
Becoming a Scientist is specifically designed to address educational inequities in STEM fields. By bringing advanced laboratory techniques to virtual reality, we provide students from underrepresented communities with access to experiences typically only available in well-funded research institutions.
Democratizing Research
Making advanced scientific techniques accessible to students regardless of their school's resources or location.
Early STEM Engagement
Introducing younger students to research careers through engaging, interactive experiences.
Diverse Representation
Showcasing research from diverse UCLA scientists and students to inspire underrepresented groups.
Practical Skills
Teaching fundamental laboratory techniques that prepare students for real research opportunities.
Expanded Content: Addition of more research disciplines including environmental science, physics, and engineering
Collaborative Learning: Multi-user experiences allowing students to work together in virtual labs
Assessment Integration: Built-in progress tracking and educational assessment tools
Global Reach: Multilingual support and cultural adaptation for broader accessibility
Real-world Connections: Integration with actual UCLA research projects and mentorship programs