Step into RIT’s Anatomical Studies Lab and experience anatomy in its most authentic form. Formerly called the Cadaver Lab, the Anatomical Studies Lab is designed to give undergraduate students a rare, hands-on opportunity, the lab combines real cadaver dissection with advanced visualization tools like the Anatomage Table. Here, you won’t just learn from textbooks—you’ll explore the structure of the human body in depth, build critical spatial understanding, and develop the practical skills that set you apart for graduate programs and careers in the health sciences.

What Is A Cadaver Lab?

A cadaver lab is a rare opportunity to study human anatomy through direct observation and dissection. At most universities anatomical studies and cadaver dissection is reserved for students in medical, dental, or graduate degree programs. At RIT, you gain this valuable experience as an undergraduate student.

Do Students Get to Practice on Real Patient Samples?

The Anatomical Studies Lab is where Human Gross Anatomy courses are taught using cadaver specimens provided by the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. You will study real human structures, build spatial understanding of the human body, and develop the kind of anatomical knowledge that clinical and graduate programs expect. This foundation gives you a meaningful advantage when you apply to medical school, physician assistant programs, or other advanced degrees in the health sciences or medical professions.

Technology That Makes Anatomy Come Alive

The lab features an Anatomage Table, a digital anatomy table featuring a full-body touchscreen that functions as a virtual cadaver. Students can rotate realistic 3D models, zoom in on individual organs, compare healthy and injured structures, and view real medical images such as CT scans. The Anatomage Table allows you to explore anatomy digitally before and alongside your work with cadaver specimens, reinforcing what you see in dissection with interactive visualization.

What Equipment Will I Use in the Lab?

The Anatomical Studies Lab is equipped with:

Cadaver specimens acquired from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
The Anatomage Table for virtual dissection and full-body visualization
Detailed anatomical models and reference materials
Workspaces designed for guided dissection, small group study, and faculty-led instruction

What You'll Do in the Lab

In the Anatomical Studies you will:

Study real human anatomical structures through guided cadaver dissection
Use the Anatomage Table to explore 3D anatomy, compare structures, and view medical imaging
Build a spatial understanding of the body that prepares you for clinical and surgical settings
Identify anatomical relationships across systems in ways that textbooks and models cannot replicate
Work through investigations that develop the observational and analytical skills expected in health care and research careers
Engage in observational activities and assignments for students in medical illustration and nutritional sciences.