Next Lab
At Next Lab, we work closely with students, faculty, communities and industry partners to explore emerging technologies and develop projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our staff brings expertise across fields such as entertainment, gaming, digital media, engineering, computer science, and design, all united by a shared commitment to shaping the future of learning.
We are driven by the belief that technology can create a better future when paired with different perspectives and bold thinking. Our aim is to empower students, educators, and industry leaders to collaborate and turn innovative ideas into impactful realities.
Dan MunnerleyExecutive Director at Next Lab
Our interdisciplinary team of researchers, educators, and technologists is dedicated to advancing learning and discovery through cutting-edge technology and hands-on experimentation. We believe in creating a collaborative environment where creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving come together to drive impactful solutions.
Please connect with us today.
Core team
Dan Munnerley, M.A.
Executive Director, Next Lab
Dan has led innovation and digital transformation projects at Higher Education institutions and in the private sector. He has authored a national curriculum for digital media in the UK, helped establish the first purpose-built university campus for Emirati women in Dubai, researched Augmented and Virtual Reality in Education as an Associate Professor and won awards for architecture, innovation and collaborative work on future learning environments at the University of Canberra, James Cook University and Arizona State University.
His research and passions lie in future thinking, systems design, and learning architecture. He is developing models that utilize AI, game tech, spatial computing, and decentralized education models to drive institutional change.
Michael Blackledge, M.Sc.
Associate Director, Next Lab Operations and Systems
Michael brings over three decades of engineering and operational experience from the startup, technology, education, and entertainment industries. He holds an M.Sc. in Media Management from The New School and a B.A. in Integrative Studies from Arizona State University.
Throughout his career, Michael has served in various technical and leadership roles at Hasbro, Microsoft, Sony PlayStation, Electronic Arts, The Los Angeles Film School, and University of Arizona.
Michael’s contributions have earned him credits on over 100 video games. He is an active member of The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and participates annually in the D.I.C.E. and Webby Awards.
Kelly Mukherjee, M.Eng.
Partners & Business Development, Next Lab Community
Kelly Chung Mukherjee is a technologist and community advocate dedicated to advancing digital equity and inclusive innovation. She serves as an appointed board member of the Arizona Digital Inclusion Network and the YWCA Metropolitan Phoenix, where she helps expand broadband access, digital literacy, and economic opportunity for underserved communities.
Kelly earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering from Cornell University and has held leadership and engineering roles at multiple Fortune 100 companies. Currently at Arizona State University, she leads large-scale initiatives focused on closing the digital divide and strengthening technology infrastructure across Arizona. Kelly is passionate about leveraging emerging technologies and cross-sector collaboration to build a more connected and equitable future.
Amanda Federico, M.Ed.
Program Coordinator, Next Lab Studio
Amanda is an artist and educator in Chandler, AZ, who joined Next Lab in 2021 and advanced from Studio Associate to Management Intern to their current role as full-time Program Coordinator, where they contribute to project management, studio programming, hiring/staffing, and more.
Amanda holds a MEd in Secondary Education, a BFA in Animation, a BS in Media Arts and Sciences, and a certificate in Computer Gaming from ASU. Their Barrett Honors thesis was a techno-feminist satire comedy show, using humor to explore how emerging technology affects marginalized groups.
Alongside experience in digital art, storytelling, and game design, Amanda is heavily involved in the valley’s youth and community theatre scene as a licensed theatre educator, performing professional improv since 2016, participating in local plays and musicals, directing shows at Perry High School, and teaching at Chandler Youth Theatre.
Jesus Franco Yescas, M.S.
Program Coordinator, Next Lab Studio
Jesus has been a member of Next Lab since 2021, going from Studio Associate to Game Engine Guild Co-Lead, then serving as a Management Intern before stepping into his current role as Program Coordinator. His work connects technical development and studio operations, managing a number of projects across the Lab while providing support on others.
He holds a B.S. in Informatics and a Certificate in Computer Gaming from Arizona State University, as well as an M.S. in Media, Arts and Sciences with a concentration in Extended Reality Technologies. His graduate applied project involved co-developing and programming a Dreamscape experience, using VR game technology to create an interactive narrative.
He is particularly interested in building engaging, responsive digital environments, with a strong affinity for game engine-based development and systems designed to encourage user exploration.
Hithesh Rai Purushothama
Management Intern, Next Lab Studio
Hithesh Rai Purushothama is a Management Intern at Next Lab at Arizona State University, where he supports artificial intelligence projects and interdisciplinary initiatives within the studio. He joined Next Lab in 2023 as a Studio Associate.
Originally from India, Hithesh is pursuing a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence Engineering with a focus on Materials Science and Engineering at Arizona State University. His interests include AI for scientific discovery, emerging energy technologies, and interdisciplinary engineering, with experience collaborating on research projects across the United States and Europe.
Studio Team
Studio Associates
At the Next Lab, we hire Studio Associates from across the university, encompassing undergraduates to doctorate-level students, to form a diverse and inclusive team. We value diversity in thought, skill, and background, as it fosters richer ideation and creativity, which is highly valued by our partners. These partners include local government, large tech companies, and ASU faculty and staff, who support our associates through their grants and research funding.