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Uniformed Services University’s Medical Innovations Student Lab turns ideas into inventions and drives innovation.
“Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”
– Pablo Picasso
Housed in Building 59 at Naval Support Activity Bethesda, the Uniformed Services University Medical Innovations Student Lab (MISL [pronounced “missile”]) is a hub of creativity and invention for medical students. Here, students aren’t just learning — they’re designing, building, and transforming ideas into tangible solutions. The lab serves as a think tank where students identify real-world problems and develop functional prototypes, making it a valuable resource for all health profession students.
“Not many people know of the lab,” says Dr. Rodrigo Mateo, director of the MISL and associate professor of surgery at USU. “It’s very new, student-run, and student-driven. Currently, several student-initiated projects are in progress with plans for completion.”
Originally known as the Medical Innovations Interest Group Lab, the MISL has grown from a concept on paper into a functional space.
“I was introduced to it about a year ago,” says Mateo. “I was very interested in the lab’s intentions. So, I dropped by for a visit, but it was merely a storage room with construction equipment, unused supplies, and a broken 3D printer. I got involved and, with the MI2G members, we were able to renovate the space a little and started building the lab. Right now, it’s functional and still growing.”
Mateo plays an active role in guiding students through hands-on learning. “We have an incredible group of advisers and mentors who support us,” says Army 2nd Lt. Jameson Williams, current MI2G president. “Dr. Mateo helps us troubleshoot, refine ideas, and develop prototypes.”
Students can take their projects with them throughout their careers. Williams envisions the MISL Lab fostering longterm innovation. “We hope to establish continuity, allowing younger students to take over and build upon existing projects.”
Navy Ensign Robert Weishar, a fourth-year medical student, has been with the MISL Lab since its inception. “We want to expand our equipment and build our reputation on campus and at Walter Reed,” he says. “We want to be the first stop for students and faculty with new ideas that need proof-of-concept prototypes.”
Dr. Martin Ottolini, professor of pediatrics and director of the Capstone Program, connects students to faculty advisers and research opportunities. With support from the Office of the Vice President for Research, Ottolini helps secure funding and resources for student projects, ensuring they receive national recognition.
The MISL Lab is equipped with CAD software, 3D printers, 3D scanners, resin molding and casting equipment, a laser cutter, and electronics. “Students collaborate with physicians to identify real-world medical challenges and develop innovative solutions,” says Williams.
Beyond prototyping, the lab is exploring artificial intelligence applications in medical education. “In the near future, I see the MISL Lab becoming the primary prototyping service for USU students and faculty,” says Weishar.
The lab empowers students to experiment and innovate without fear of failure. “The MISL Lab allows students to think creatively and develop solutions for healthcare challenges,” says Mateo. “Innovative projects lead to a new generation of physicians with diverse skills and experiences.”
First-year Army 2nd Lt. Margaret Pritchett, the MISL research representative, encourages students to join. “We provide a supportive environment for problem-solving and invention. We invite you to share your passion for innovation with us.”
Projects at the MISL Lab include:
A newly developed surgical device created for Dr. Shawn Gee, a sports medicine orthopedic surgeon at West Point. Designed and fabricated entirely in the MISL, it is currently in the patent process with the U.S. Army.
A rapid glove-loading device for mass casualty events, developed by Air Force 2nd Lts. Noah Smith and Andrew Bayne, which improves efficiency while maintaining sterile technique.
3D-printed anatomical models for the anatomy curriculum, developed by Army 2nd Lts. Jonathan Wang and Geovanny Reyes-Matute in collaboration with Dr. Guinevere Granite, offering cost-effective learning tools.
