Reinstallation of the Historical-Folklore Museum of Corinth

Virtual Laboratories of Evolutionary Medicine

Implementation Period: 2026

Institution: DUTH

Technology: VR Application

The “Virtual Laboratories of Evolutionary Medicine” project was developed in 2026 for the Laboratory of Biological Anthropology at Democritus University of Thrace. The project involved the creation of three immersive virtual laboratories dedicated to Evolutionary Medicine: an Osteology Laboratory, a Histology Laboratory, and a Stable Isotopes Laboratory. Through Virtual Reality (VR) technologies, real laboratory spaces, scientific equipment, and research procedures were transformed into a fully interactive digital learning environment.

The application was developed for Windows and integrated with Meta Quest VR headsets, providing a simulation-based educational experience available in both Greek and English. Users can enter the virtual laboratories, interact with scientific equipment using natural hand movements, and perform laboratory procedures step by step, closely replicating real-world laboratory workflows.

The project's objective is to provide a modern educational platform that supports safe hands-on training, interactive learning, and remote access to specialized laboratory experiences.

The “Virtual Laboratories of Evolutionary Medicine” will be integrated into the newly established Interinstitutional Master of Science Program “Evolutionary Medicine” developed by the Laboratory of Biological Anthropology of the School of Humanities at Democritus University of Thrace, in collaboration with the Institute of Evolutionary Medicine of the University of Zurich.

VR Application

Digitization, Scanning and 3D Models

The development of the virtual laboratories began with the complete digitization of the Laboratory of Biological Anthropology's facilities and scientific equipment. Using high-precision 3D scanning technologies, detailed digital models of laboratory instruments, biological specimens (including bones and teeth), and workspaces were created while preserving their real-world geometry and morphology.

The resulting data were processed and optimized for virtual reality environments, enabling the rendering of highly detailed photorealistic models while ensuring smooth performance on VR devices.

Digital Twin Development - Virtual Laboratories

Based on the digitized assets, three digital twins were developed, accurately replicating the Osteology, Histology, and Stable Isotopes laboratories. Users can freely navigate the environment, operate scientific instruments, and perform laboratory procedures through natural interactions.

Using hand-tracking technology, users can carry out tasks such as handling samples, operating measuring instruments, adjusting laboratory equipment, and monitoring experimental results in real time. This approach provides learners with valuable practical experience in a safe and controlled environment, free from the limitations associated with physical equipment availability and access to specialized laboratory facilities.

Educational Scenarios and Gamification

The learning experience is built around interactive scenarios that replicate real scientific and laboratory procedures, helping users understand both theoretical concepts and their practical application.

Each scenario begins with an audiovisual introduction delivered by a virtual avatar, which explains the objectives of the procedure and guides users through each step. Participants are then required to actively perform the necessary actions within an immersive environment featuring realistic simulations and laboratory tools.

Throughout all scenarios, users receive immediate feedback on the accuracy and sequence of their actions. Gamification elements, including audiovisual feedback mechanisms, progress indicators, and interactive learning features, are integrated into the experience to enhance engagement, reinforce knowledge acquisition, and support effective learning outcomes.