University of Massachusetts Amherst Opens Physical Sciences Building

Published 4/22/2019

University of Massachusetts Amherst - Physical Sciences Building

^{Courtesy of Wilson HGA.}

University of Massachusetts Amherst - Physical Sciences Building

^{Courtesy of Wilson HGA.}

University of Massachusetts Amherst - Physical Sciences Building

^{Courtesy of Wilson HGA.}

University of Massachusetts Amherst - Physical Sciences Building

^{Courtesy of Wilson HGA.}

University of Massachusetts Amherst - Physical Sciences Building

^{Courtesy of Wilson HGA.}

University of Massachusetts Amherst - Physical Sciences Building

^{Courtesy of Wilson HGA.}

University of Massachusetts Amherst - Physical Sciences Building

^{Courtesy of Wilson HGA.}

University of Massachusetts Amherst - Physical Sciences Building

^{Courtesy of the University of Massachusetts Amherst.}

Amherst, Mass.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst opened the $101 million Physical Sciences Building in April of 2019. Designed by Wilson HGA, the 95,000-sf facility can accommodate 20 faculty-led research groups with a total of 130 reconfigurable bench positions. Supporting scientific discovery in organic chemistry, materials science, and condensed matter physics, the building provides open research labs, extensive core support labs, offices, and collaboration areas. The three-level structure houses 92 chemical fume hoods that are managed by an integrated energy awareness platform. A basement level offers high bay space with vibration-mitigated slabs and storage pits for cryogenic materials. LEED Gold sustainable design certification will be sought for the facility, which features interactive staircases, advanced building systems, and access to natural light and views. Whiting-Turner was the construction manager for the project, which included the recreation of the historic West Experiment Station on top of a new fireproof steel skeleton.