NSF-Funded simulation and optimization lab expands research and innovation capacity
New facility strengthens data-driven modeling, digital twin development, and regional economic analysis across the Illinois Innovation Network
The Governors State University (GovState) Simulation and Optimization Lab was established with support from a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant and expands the university’s capacity for advanced modeling, analytics, and applied research. The lab is equipped with 15 laptops for student researchers, a faculty workstation, and connectivity to network printers.
The facility includes leading analytical and simulation tools such as AnyLogic for multimethod simulation and digital twin modeling, ArcGIS for geographic information system (GIS) analysis, Python for programming and optimization, Trello for project coordination, and Power BI for data visualization and reporting. The lab may also incorporate IMPLAN to support economic impact analysis and regional economic modeling.
The lab supports research and applied modeling focused on the simulation and optimization of complex systems across sectors such as logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, and regional economic development. These capabilities enable data-driven analysis and scenario testing that can inform operational decision-making, policy analysis, and industry innovation.
Efforts are also underway to enable remote access so that member universities of the Illinois Innovation Network (IIN) can utilize the facility’s capabilities to support collaborative research, workforce development, and innovation initiatives across Illinois.