University of Arizona Breaks Ground on Grand Challenges Research Building

Published 10/13/2021

University of Arizona - Grand Challenges Research Building

^{Courtesy of ZGF Architects and BWS Architects.}

University of Arizona - Grand Challenges Research Building

^{Courtesy of ZGF Architects and BWS Architects.}

University of Arizona - Grand Challenges Research Building

^{Courtesy of ZGF Architects and BWS Architects.}

University of Arizona - Grand Challenges Research Building

^{Courtesy of ZGF Architects and BWS Architects.}

University of Arizona - Grand Challenges Research Building

^{Courtesy of ZGF Architects and BWS Architects.}

University of Arizona - Grand Challenges Research Building

^{Courtesy of ZGF Architects and BWS Architects.}

University of Arizona - Grand Challenges Research Building

^{Courtesy of ZGF Architects and BWS Architects.}

University of Arizona - Grand Challenges Research Building

^{Courtesy of ZGF Architects and BWS Architects.}

Tucson, Ariz.

The University of Arizona broke ground in September of 2021 on the $99 million Grand Challenges Research Building in Tucson. Designed by ZGF Architects and BWS Architects, the 115,000-sf interdisciplinary facility will provide flexible labs for programs in optics, quantum computing, advanced communications, and biomedicine. With instructional venues, study areas, and meeting rooms strategically located on the ground floor, the seven-story structure will include three floors of dedicated lab and office space for the Wyant College of Optical Sciences. Three additional levels will accommodate maker spaces, instrumentation suites, and collaborative research environments for cross-campus initiatives such as the Center for Quantum Networks. Kitchell Contractors is the construction manager for the project, which will physically connect to the existing Meinel Optical Sciences Building. Completion is expected in February of 2024.