IdeaLab

What is ideaLab

ideaLab is Dyne’s flagship applied research program. Unlike traditional academic routes that focus on theory or publishing alone, ideaLab trains students to solve real-world problems through hands-on experimentation and project-based research. From building tools to exploring systems, participants learn by doing and create outcomes that matter.

How ideaLab Works

This is not a lecture-based course. ideaLab is structured like a real-world R&D lab. Students are placed into specialized tracks (AI, Biotech, etc.) and work on guided innovation challenges and missions. Each mission is designed to produce tangible work; solutions, experiments, prototypes, or tools that reflect deep thinking and applied expertise.

You’ll collaborate in cross-disciplinary teams, build under mentorship from real experts, and publish your work in formats that actually move the needle; public demos, research portfolios, technical documents, and open tools.

Program Phases

• Phase 1: Orientation & Foundations
  You’ll start with an onboarding sprint: learning how applied research works, how to frame good questions, and how to navigate ambiguity. We cover core methods like systems thinking, rapid experimentation, and collaborative R&D.
  
  

• Phase 2: Mission-Based Projects
  Each student joins a specialized lab (AI Lab, Bio Lab, Space Lab, etc.). Here, you’ll work on structured missions that push your thinking and output. Expect to explore cutting-edge questions, work in small teams, and get feedback from mentors and peers.
  
  

• Phase 3: Final Showcase
  Each team presents their final work; a prototype, research portfolio, or applied tool. Projects are shared across Dyne’s network, and some are selected for follow-on development or public feature.

Specializations

Participants in ideaLab can specialize in one of the following tracks but will engage with other areas to encourage collaboration across disciplines:

• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
  Focus on designing and building AI systems that can address real-world issues, from healthcare to smart cities.
  
  

• Biotechnology & Healthcare
  Work on projects that intersect biology, technology, and healthcare to improve lives and solve pressing global health issues.
  
  

• Advanced Materials & Nanotech
  Develop new materials with unique properties to drive innovations in various industries, including energy, manufacturing, and sustainability.
  
  

• Space Exploration
  Engage in cutting-edge research related to space technologies, exploration, and the future of humanity beyond Earth.
  
  

• Immersive Technologies (AR/VR, Simulation)
  Use immersive tech to simulate real-world environments for applications in education, research, training, and beyond.
  
  

• Cybersecurity & Future Networks
  Address the security challenges of modern digital networks and create solutions for a safer, more connected world.

  
  

The Dyne Approach

• Applied Research > Theoretical Alone

  At Dyne, we believe students should do more than study or write about ideas; they should build with them. Applied research develops sharper thinking, stronger portfolios, and more authentic readiness for top-tier institutions and companies.
  
  

• Portfolio Outcomes, Not Just Grades or Papers

  Everything you do in ideaLab is designed to lead to real output. Think: working demos, technical documentation, personal research sites, short whitepapers, GitHub repos, and live prototypes. (You will also get your own professional STEM portfolio on Dyne's platform)
  
  

• Mentorship + Global Community

  You’ll join a global network of researchers, mentors, and builders. Many alumni go on to publish, launch companies, or join elite academic and innovation tracks.

  
  

  
  

Who Can Join?

ideaLab is selective. We look for students who show potential; not necessarily with perfect resumes, but with curiosity, initiative, and problem-solving mindset. If you're serious about building real work that matters, you're welcome here.

What You'll Walk Away With

• A research-grade portfolio of applied work

• Experience working in a high-level innovation lab

• Mentorship from experts in science, tech, and industry

• Proof of initiative, thinking, and skill; backed by real output

• Access to Dyne’s private network and follow-on programs
  
  

  
  

Structure & Commitment

• Duration: 12 weeks

• Format: Fully remote, global cohorts

• Sessions: Weekly live sessions, async missions

• Output: Applied research portfolio + final showcase + Industry Connections

  
  

The program allows flexibility for participants to balance their personal schedules while ensuring that each mission has clear deadlines and milestones. The digital-first model ensures that members can collaborate across time zones and borders.