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University of Wisconsin-River Falls Builds SciTech Innovation Center

Published 8/23/2024
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The University of Wisconsin-River Falls is constructing the $117 million Science and Technology Innovation Center (SciTech) to provide dynamic environments for hands-on discovery. Designed by BWBR Architects, the 134,560-gsf building will accommodate programs in biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology, as well as supporting related courses in pre-engineering, biotechnology, and neuroscience. This nexus of experiential education will house 32 undergraduate research venues, 12 teaching labs, three wet research labs, an optics lab, an imaging suite, a maker space, and areas for prototyping and fabrication.

Featuring collaboration zones on each floor, the three-story structure will also offer active learning studios, computational labs, offices, conference rooms, a vivarium, a greenhouse, and space for the Environmental Affinity Group. The new University and Business Collaboration Center (UBC²) will foster interaction between students and regional employers through internships, seminars, and shared R&D initiatives. A large presentation space will serve as a launchpad for pitching ideas, showcasing capstone projects, and engaging with industry partners.

Market & Johnson is the general contractor for the facility with Graef as the structural engineer. Ground was broken in October of 2023 and occupancy is expected in January of 2026.

Organization Project Role
BWBR Architects
Architect
Market & Johnson
General Contractor
Graef
Structural Engineer