About Us

The Robotics, Instrumentation, and Control Engineering Laboratory (RICE Lab), housed in the College of Engineering (COE) Building at Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), is dedicated to research and innovation in robotics, biomechanical research, defense and security, and integrated systems development.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, RICE Lab tackled critical medical challenges, developing innovative biomedical technologies to support the country’s healthcare response. As the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Act gained momentum (REPUBLIC ACT NO. 12024, October 08, 2024), the lab shifted its focus toward asymmetric warfare technologies, advancing research in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), Integrated Defense Systems, and smart munitions—all aimed at strengthening the Philippines' defense capabilities through cutting-edge innovation.

Beyond research, RICE Lab is committed to world-class mentoring, equipping students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed for real-world applications. The lab integrates Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools for efficient engineering development, along with computer-based simulations such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to validate designs, ensuring structural integrity, performance, and reliability before implementation.

By merging advanced methodologies, state-of-the-art tools, and expert mentoring, RICE Lab continues to drive technological advancements with meaningful impact across biomedical, robotics, and defense applications.