WVU Behavioral Economics and Situational Testing (BEAST) Lab

The WVU Behavioral Economics and Situational Testing (BEAST) Lab is a premier research facility dedicated to exploring critical behavioral questions in economics and related fields. Located in Reynolds Hall, the lab provides a dynamic environment equipped with advanced technology and collaborative spaces that foster creativity and teamwork. This enables students to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, cultivating their skills and achieving academic excellence.

Research and Focus Areas:

The BEAST Lab employs experimental methods to investigate a wide range of behavioral economics topics, with a particular focus on projects that have meaningful impacts on marginalized communities. Current research areas include:

- Education mentoring

- Identity and gender dynamics

- Currency stability

- Team formation and group identity cohesion

- Effects of propaganda

Opportunities for Students:

Undergraduate students have the opportunity to join the BEAST Lab as research apprentices through the RAP (Research Apprenticeship Program). These apprenticeships allow students to work alongside active graduate students, assisting with research and data analysis while developing their own research skills.

Additional Labs and Facilities:

1. STAR Lab:

- Focuses on social technology, including content creation, social media marketing, e-commerce, and more.

- Equipped with cutting-edge technology like Meta Quest 2 bundles, VR viewers, podcast equipment, and advanced software tools.

2. Roll Capital Markets Center:

- A financial trading lab with Bloomberg terminals and a stock ticker.

- Focuses on capital markets learning and research, providing real-time data and hands-on experience in managing a portfolio.

3. Wehrle Global Supply Chain Lab:

- Provides hands-on experience in supply chain management with state-of-the-art technology and software.

- Features strong industry partnerships and offers workshops, seminars, and career development resources.

4. Karen Evans Cybersecurity Lab:

- Offers hands-on learning experiences in cybersecurity.

- Equipped with advanced cybersecurity software and tools, preparing students for careers in digital security.

5. Nemacolin Hospitality Innovation and Technology Lab:

- Focuses on technological advancements in the hospitality industry using IoT, AR, and VR devices.

- Provides tools and software for developing, testing, and evaluating new information technologies.

6. Data Analytics Lab:

- A collaborative workspace for immersive, hands-on learning in data analytics.

- Partners with industry leaders to bridge the skills gap and offers capstone projects, employment opportunities, and extracurricular experiences.

Conclusion:

The WVU BEAST Lab and its associated facilities are designed to empower students with practical skills and knowledge through cutting-edge research and hands-on learning opportunities. By fostering innovation and collaboration, the labs at Reynolds Hall are preparing the next generation of leaders in various fields, from behavioral economics to cybersecurity and data analytics.