Work with the Gies Business Research Lab
Lab Facilities
GBRL provides researchers with leading-edge equipment, upgraded computers, and unique physical space to conduct research studies.
The BioLab, launched in fall 2022, enables researchers to conduct groundbreaking studies using eye tracking, facial expression analysis (FEA), and galvanic skin response (GSR). The BioLab is also compatible with VR hardware and software that can be integrated into biosensor studies. The BioLab hardware and software was made possible through the generous support of an anonymous Gies donor.
GBRL provides oversight of scheduling and the day-to-day operations of several dedicated behavioral research lab spaces:
- 24 Wohlers Hall (31 research stations)
- 36 Wohlers Hall (52 research stations that can be partitioned into 24 and 28 per side)
- 50 Wohlers Hall (3 interview rooms, laptop reservations, flex space)
- The BioLab (with iMotions Biosensor Modules)
Lab calendar
Heads up! The lab calendar is getting an update for Fall 2025. More information will be available shortly.
Conducting Research at GBRL
Gies researchers have access to multiple diverse participant pools for their behavioral study.
Gies Business Research Panel
Dedicated panel of alumni, professionals, and community members. Currently, there are over 2,000 members who have access to Panel-hosted studies. IRB approval is required, as well as completion of the GBRL Panel approval form. Study approval is rolling, and studies can be added at any time.
iDegree Online Pool
Participant from iMBA, iMSM, and iMSA classes. There are over 8,000 students that participate in a research study through this pool each year. Students are granted extra credit in a participating course for completing a research study. Studies should be managerially relevant and appeal to a globally diverse audience. IRB approval is required, as well as an allocation application (this is available at the beginning of each term). Allocations are awarded at the start of each academic term.
General Student Pool
Participant pool primarily consisting of undergraduate students in participating Gies courses. Students are granted extra credit in a participating course for completing a research study. IRB approval is required, as well as an allocation application (this is available at the beginning of each term). Allocations are awarded at the start of each academic term.
Recruitment and Paid Advertising for Studies
GBRL will run targeted research study ads for Gies Business Research Panel studies. Paid ads will be placed on platforms such as LinkedIn and will focus on dedicated recruitment for individual studies. GBRL will also provide support for advertising on Gies social media platforms.
Workshops and Trainings
GBRL staff offer workshops and training opportunities to help strengthen and expand the research efforts of all faculty and students, whether they are new or experienced in business research. A set of basic training opportunities has been prepared and can be accessed online at any time. Advanced or customized training can be created or tailored to your research needs.
Self-guided workshop and trainings:
Have a question? Email busresearchlab@illinois.edu today!
Additional Resources for Gies Researchers
- Data Science Research Services
The Data Science Research Service (DSRS) drives research within Gies Business by assisting students, faculty, and staff with their data science, machine learning, computational infrastructure, and data acquisition needs. - Qualtrics
Qualtrics is an industry-leading, cloud-based survey platform that can be used for research surveys, registrations, and other administrative survey needs. All Gies faculty, students, and staff have access to a Qualtrics license through the college. - Sona Systems
Sona Systems is the cloud-based research and participant management system used by Gies researchers. - Research at Gies
Learn more about research support at Gies.