MABEL combines two complementary forms of infrastructure.
A Physical Laboratory
The laboratory at University MAGIS provides a controlled environment for behavioral experiments with university students, adolescents, and adults. It can be used for computerized experiments, surveys, group interactions, and training activities.
A Portable Laboratory
The mobile component of MABEL allows researchers to bring experimental tools directly into the field. This makes it possible to conduct studies in schools, villages, urban neighborhoods, and communities that are not usually represented in laboratory research.
The portable lab is central to MABEL’s mission. It allows researchers to collect high-quality data while respecting the realities of local environments and making research participation more accessible.
Capacity Building
MABEL is not only a research platform. It is also a capacity-building initiative.
The laboratory aims to train students, faculty, and local researchers in experimental methods, data collection, research ethics, statistical analysis, and interdisciplinary social science. Through workshops, research projects, and collaborations, MABEL seeks to help develop a new generation of researchers in Madagascar.
The laboratory will also create opportunities for local students to participate in international research collaborations and to contribute to projects addressing questions of direct relevance to their communities.
Ethical Research
MABEL is committed to conducting research ethically and respectfully. All projects will follow appropriate standards for informed consent, protection of participants, confidentiality, and institutional review.
Special care will be taken when working with children, vulnerable populations, and communities facing economic or educational hardship. Research will be designed in collaboration with local partners and with attention to cultural context, feasibility, and community benefit.