Presentation: MIT Immersion Lab: Redefining Sports Science through XR and Fencing

Talis Reks is the Lab Manager of the MIT.nano Immersion Lab, where he oversees operations and supports innovative work at the intersection of art, science, and immersive technology. At MIT, he leads a cutting-edge facility that enables multidisciplinary teams to explore new forms of virtual and augmented reality experiences. He is also the co-founder and co-CEO of DreaMR Labs, an XR development studio focused on creating real-world applications that use immersive technology and game development to solve complex challenges. With a Master’s degree in Digital Media Design, Talis has contributed to XR initiatives at Harvard University, particularly in the area of public health. His work bridges creativity and research, driving forward immersive innovation through simulation, interactivity, and design.

At the MIT.nano Immersion Lab, XR technologies are actively advancing research in biomechanics, human behavior, and physiological monitoring. Through the integration of motion capture systems and physiological data tracking, the lab facilitates studies that reveal how people respond and perform within immersive environments. These experiences are not only used for investigation but also for developing, training, and evaluating human performance and decision-making. Current case studies span healthcare, sports science, and human factors, leveraging head-mounted displays (HMDs) and custom XR applications to create immersive tools that inform both research and real-world applications. These efforts position XR as a valuable medium for studying behavior, enhancing learning, and improving process efficiency across disciplines.