Montclair State breaks ground on $120 million science building to expand research, STEM education
The 110,000-square-foot facility, expected to open in 2028, will triple the university's on-campus science lab space and support interdisciplinary research.
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Montclair State University has broken ground on a new $120 million Interdisciplinary Science Building that officials say will expand research opportunities and significantly increase science education space on campus.
The 110,000-square-foot facility is expected to open for the 2028-29 academic year and will include teaching and research labs, technology-equipped classrooms, faculty workspaces, student collaboration areas and a flexible event space, the university announced Wednesday.
The project is being funded in part by a $60 million capital facilities grant from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.
University officials said the building will triple the amount of on-campus science lab space and support expanded chemistry, physics and interdisciplinary science programs.
Planned features include an immersive data visualization and innovation space called the Imaginarium, the university's first indoor-outdoor classroom, a rooftop terrace, and a fourth-floor research space designed for collaboration with private-sector partners. The building is also designed to meet LEED Silver sustainability standards with features including solar energy generation and native landscaping.
Montclair State President Jonathan Koppell said the project reflects the university's commitment to expanding access to high-quality science education.
"By creating modern laboratories, collaborative spaces and research opportunities, we ensure our students receive an education worthy of their investment while preparing them to shape the future of New Jersey," Koppell said.
The university said it reported $45.43 million in research expenditures in 2025.
(Photo Credit: HOK Architects and Montclair State University Facilities)
