The Science Center

Opening Day & Summer Research Posters

Interdisciplinary Spaces

The Science Center’s teaching and research spaces have been designed to facilitate the interdisciplinary partnerships that are increasingly shaping discoveries in science.

The ways we teach science and conduct research have changed dramatically in the decades since Merrill was built. We’re looking forward to flexible spaces in the new building that allow for innovative and modern ways of teaching science.”
—Anthony Bishop, Professor of Chemistry

The biology and chemistry departments will share multiple research labs, with student write-up space nearby, which will create opportunities for students involved in different projects to engage with and learn from one another. 

A New Campus Hub

In addition to upgrading our science infrastructure, the Science Center will offer flexible classrooms and gathering spaces that can be used by faculty and students from all over campus. With its inviting exterior, large and functional main commons, visible research labs, surrounding gardens, and many areas for casual interaction, the Science Center will draw together the sciences and the wider College community.

Designed with Sustainability in Mind

Amherst gathered a world-class team of industry leaders to design a new type of science building. Leveraging new technologies, our team of architects, engineers and sustainability experts developed sophisticated solutions, using computational modeling to explore various options and refine the designs.

Their resulting innovations set the stage for the Science Center to perform at an unparalleled level of energy efficiency.

The average science building uses about 370 kiloBTUs per square foot per year. We intend to reduce that by 73 percent or more through a variety of features: highly efficient systems for everything from the building HVAC down to individual lab hoods; a state-of-the-art insulating building envelope; and careful floor plan design so that sensitive and specialized lab systems are grouped together. 

The Central Stair

At the core of the building, the open Central Stair provides access to all floors, along with views of the Greenway landscape outside, as well as labs and working spaces inside, via glass walls. In a vestibule off the stair is an interactive computer display presenting faculty and student research.

The North and South Commons

A large, open area runs the length of the building and is separated by the Central Stair into the North and South Commons. A unifying space, the two commons bring all elements of the building together across levels. The commons, in turn, are open to campus. The large, west-facing glass curtain wall hangs in tension, with no columns to separate it from campus, making the work of science visible. 

The Glass Wall

The dramatic glass wall provides more than a spectacular view. It helps us meet our energy conservation goals. Efficient glass, innovative shading, and natural ventilation systems make our wall a key part of our energy strategy.

Built into the hillside, the ground floor receives natural light from the recessed Winter Garden. Surrounding the Garden are social and study spaces. Light from the Winter Garden

What is Biophillic Design?

Rooted in the belief that people thrive in natural settings, biophillic design connects interior spaces with natural surroundings, creating a flow between inside and outside. In the Science Center, abundant natural light, extensive use of natural materials, maximized views of the landscape, and green roofs all serve to connect the interior with the scenic and living Greenway.