On September 14, the Ralph S. O’Connor Building for Engineering and Science, spanning 250,000 square feet with 50 cutting-edge research laboratories, was formally dedicated, honoring the late university trustee whose generosity brought this facility to fruition. At the dedication ceremony, Provost Amy Dittmar highlighted the building as Rice's most significant research facility investment since the Biosciences Research Collaborative. It represents the university’s dedication to advancing research and providing a state-of-the-art facility for those conducting this critical work.
The O’Connor building was designed and constructed to emphasize Rice’s dedication to sustainability. The building includes:
- 86% of the construction and demolition materials were salvaged or recycled, including wood, metal, paper/cardboard, and concrete/brick.
- Sourced materials are non-toxic with a low carbon footprint.
- Indoor water usage was reduced by 40% by selecting water-reducing fixtures and using alternate water resources.
- Versatile office spaces accommodate flexible work arrangements, which reduces the need for additional construction.
The technologies that will be developed here will contribute solutions for some of today’s most pressing problems . . . and help advance the greater good. Luay Nakhleh, Dean of Engineering
The building, designed for collaboration, welcomes the campus community from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, Saturday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., and Sunday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Faculty, students, and staff working in the O’Connor building labs have round the clock access to their specific areas. Additionally, this December, a new cafe will open on the first floor, providing coffee, snacks, and picturesque views of the engineering quad.