New Sciences Building Is Pure Gold
The new 186,000-square-foot Sciences Building opened in July 2020 and soon after was awarded LEED Gold status by the U.S. Green Building Council.
It houses the Department of Physics, classrooms, offices, teaching and research labs, and some activities of the William B. Hanson Center for Space Sciences. The building features two lecture halls and an open courtyard with green space and seating areas.
The new building is an “absolutely gorgeous space,” said Dr. Matthew Goeckner, former interim head of physics and associate dean of the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM). “It not only provides enough space for teaching labs, but it also enables the entire physics department to be under one roof rather than scattered in eight buildings across campus.”
Dr. Bruce Novak, professor of chemistry, holder of the Francis S. and Maurine G. Johnson Chair and former dean of NSM, advocated for the new building. He said the L-shaped design allows students to see science in action as they pass teaching labs on the ground floor.
“We’re thrilled with it. This building really enhances our ability to teach in a modern physics lab setting,” Novak said. “I can’t praise the architect firm Stantec and the construction firm Linbeck enough. It was just beautiful how it all came together.”
Because the building’s basement was built close to bedrock, it will enhance physics research for experiments that require minimal vibrations, “the lowest temperature you can conceive,” or a dark environment for laser spectroscopy, Novak said.
As the world’s premier credentialing system for sustainable construction, LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, recognizes environmentally conscious construction around the globe.
The Sciences Building incorporates regionally sourced materials and technology that significantly reduce water consumption. Energy-efficient equipment and lighting reduce energy use, and about 75% of demolition and construction waste was diverted from landfills through recycling. Nearly a quarter of the building materials were made of recycled content, including concrete, steel, framing, drywall and flooring.
“The Sciences Building is the eighth LEED-certified building at UT Dallas in the last decade and brings our LEED-certified square footage on campus to nearly 1.3 million. The University’s commitment to sustainability in the midst of our tremendous physical growth has been a point of pride for our entire campus community,” said Gary Cocke, UT Dallas director of energy conservation and sustainability.
– Robin Russell
