SNEAK PEEK: UAB opens new $76M Science Halls [PHOTOS]

UAB
UAB East and South Science Building (Bham Now)

Bham Now was on hand today to witness the ribbon-cutting and opening of the UAB’s new $76 million East and South Science Halls.

Before all the celebrations, we were able to receive a tour of this new state of the art facility.

About the new UAB Science Halls

First, a quick rundown about the two Science Halls that are located adjacent to the UAB Mini-Park on 14th Street.

Presently, the official name of the building is East and South Science Halls. It is part of Phase One of the Science and Engineering Complex, the new home to the department’s of physics and biology. It will house two organic chemistry teaching labs, faculty, researchers and staff. Research labs for physics and biology have also moved into the building.

Some of the research that they’ll be focusing on here includes: 

  • Healthy aging
  • Novel lasers
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Food security, and more. 

The total square footage for the buildings is 138,842 square feet.

Wise words from the Dean Kecia Thomas

UAB
UAB College of Arts and Sciences Dean Kecia M. Thomas, Ph.D speaking at the ribbon cutting (Pat Byington/Bham Now)

During her presentation at the Thursday morning ribbon-cutting College of Arts and Sciences Dean Kecia M. Thomas, Ph.D. summed up the importance of this new building for UAB students, faculty, researchers, staff and community

“As you move through the space today, you’ll notice an impressive amount of natural light filtering through the many windows. I believe this is an apt symbol. Specifically for me, that light symbolizes how knowledge can overcome the darkness of ignorance.

In addition, I hope that many glass walls help our students appreciate the minimal barrier between where they are now and where they’re going. Although this space will be home to the department’s of physics or biology, as well as teaching labs for chemistry, the impact will reach beyond those disciplines. Students from all majors will learn and research here and hopefully uncover new and fruitful collaborations and relationships.

As I looked at the brightness within this space, I can’t help but also imagine a bright future for all who are engaged with it.”

UAB
UAB ribbon cutting (Pat Byington/Bham Now)

Learn more about UAB’s Biology and Physics Department and the impact this move will have on the work they do.

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Pat Byington
Pat Byington

Longtime conservationist. Former Executive Director at the Alabama Environmental Council and Wild South. Publisher of the Bama Environmental News for more than 18 years. Career highlights include playing an active role in the creation of Alabama's Forever Wild program, Little River Canyon National Preserve, Dugger Mountain Wilderness, preservation of special places throughout the East through the Wilderness Society and the strengthening (making more stringent) the state of Alabama's cancer risk and mercury standards.

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