University of Wisconsin-River Falls Opens SciTech Innovation Center

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls opened the Science and Technology Innovation Center (SciTech) in January of 2026. Designed by BWBR Architects, the $117 million building features immersive environments for hands-on discovery. The three-story, 134,560-gsf structure offers a maker space, active learning studios, 12 instructional labs, and three wet research labs. This nexus of experiential education also provides 32 undergraduate research spaces, an optics lab, computational labs, offices, and conference rooms. Accommodating programs in biology, chemistry, physics, and psychological sciences, the flexible and adaptable facility supports related courses in biotechnology, neuroscience, and pre-engineering. 

Collaboration zones on each floor promote knowledge exchange across disciplines, and interior windows allow inspiring views into classrooms and labs to put science on display. SciTech includes space for the Environmental Affinity Group, as well as a vivarium, an imaging suite, and a greenhouse. Fostering the creation of internship opportunities with regional employers, the University and Business Collaboration Center integrates settings for research, prototyping, and product development to drive interaction with industry partners. A large presentation venue will host seminars, showcase capstone projects, and serve as a launchpad for pitching ideas.

Market & Johnson was the general contractor for the sustainably designed facility and GRAEF acted as structural engineer. Smart LED lighting systems reduce energy consumption, accompanied by large, bird-safe exterior windows to maximize access to natural light. Building materials were sourced locally and regionally, complemented by the selection of native landscaping, permeable pavers, and concrete with recycled content. Ground was broken on SciTech in October of 2023.