Facilities for engineering, computer and mathematical sciences

Our industry-leading facilities for engineering and computer and mathematical sciences students include the Scanning Electron Microscope, 3D Printing Lab and our 'living lab', WZ Building .

These world-class facilities are used for teaching and research.

3D Printing Lab

The 3D Printing Lab has the tools to help students create 3D parts, objects and prototypes from digital designs. The lab is staffed by expert technicians, and it supports research into new materials for additive manufacturing processes and mechanisms of their consolidation.

The lab is equipped with machinery for selective laser sintering (SLS) and fused deposition modelling (FDM) processes as well as 3D printing and laser cutting.

3D Printing Lab website

Scanning Electron Microscope

The scanning electron microscope facility features a state of the art Hitachi SU-70 Schottky field emission SEM capable of ultra-high resolution imaging at low and high accelerating voltages.

Secondary and backscatter electron imaging capabilities are further complemented by energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) detectors, for analysis of elemental composition, microstructure and crystallography.

Tribology and Surface Engineering Laboratory

A multidisciplinary research lab, the Tribology and Surface Engineering Laboratory has a range of modern test instruments and capabilities. Researchers outside AUT can use the facilities, and the lab welcomes enquiries about undergraduate and postgraduate projects.

WZ Building (Ngā Wai Hono), a 'living lab'

Ngā Wai Hono, or WZ Building, is the home of AUT’s School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences. The state-of-the art building is an education tool – it acts as a ‘living laboratory’ where lessons are brought to life by showing how theory from the classroom has been applied to WZ’s building design:

  • Services in ceilings are left exposed and plant rooms have glazed walls – so you can see the inner workings of the building
  • Students and staff can test and collect data from the Building Management System

Learning isn't restricted to a classroom in WZ Building. Structure testing labs, a seismic shake table and flexible learning and social spaces encourage innovative ideas and research.

BioDesign Lab: developing better health solutions

The BioDesign Lab draws on expertise from across AUT's faculties and disciplines – including engineering, design, physiology and neuroscience – to research and develop bio-medical solutions and improve the health outcomes of humans and animals. The lab also works to develop existing intellectual property, often with industry, and staff and students collaborate to develop it and work towards commercialisation.

If you have an interest in bioengineering, you could be involved with the BioDesign Lab as part of your studies. Check out the BioDesign Lab's website to find out about their latest projects and news.

Institute of Biomedical Technologies

AUT’s Institute of Biomedical Technologies (IBTec) has specialist facilities to support its research into innovative technologies that improve healthcare, including therapies for breathing disorders such as asthma, apnoea, and diagnosing cardiovascular disease.

IBTec’s facilities are used for medical ultrasound imaging, measuring the electrical and mechanical properties of biological and soft materials, and precise laser measurements of vibration.

Undergraduate and postgraduate students can use the facilities to explore medical measurement technology during taught laboratories, research projects and internships.

R&D and partnering

Many of our research facilities can be used by external organisations, and we welcome enquiries about community and business research and development.

Partner with us

Research in engineering, computer and mathematical sciences

We believe in high-quality research that has impact, and have world-class researchers and research strengths across engineering, computer and mathematical sciences.

About our research

AiLab and Specialist in Residence

Find out how we've partnered with AiLab and its co-founder Dr John Flackett to host an Artificial Intelligence Lab (AiLab). AiLab will be part of AUT's existing AI initiatives, with Dr Flackett helping promote AI in his role as AI Specialist in Residence.

Learn more about AiLab