Advanced Science Building
View of the north facade and main entrance of the Advanced Science Building © KAAN Architecten and Celnikier & Grabli Architectes
Today’s basic science research relies on instruments so sensitive that they must be completely isolated from the outside world.
The new Advanced Science Building has been designed to answer such constraints and will provide full isolation from any type of disturbance. Thanks to its central structure being mounted on springs, it will significantly minimize the fluctuations in temperature, humidity, noise, vibration and electromagnetic fields.
The architects behind this sophisticated design are KAAN Architecten as well as Celnikier & Grabli Architectes. Its construction on the EPFL campus in Ecublens is due to start in 2026 and be completed in 2029.
View of the flow of laboratories in the future Advanced Science Building; chemistry laboratory lit in second day © KAAN Architecten and Celnikier & Grabli Architectes
Some research instruments cannot tolerate vibrations of less than one hundredth of a micron per second. As a comparison, a hair thickness is 50 to 100 microns.
This key facility will therefore meet the needs of scientists from cross-disciplinary research groups, especially in the fields of quantum mechanics, physics, chemistry and engineering.
26 research groups, 500 scientists
Accelerating the transition from basic to applied research
Recycled, sustainable materials
A forward-looking commitment
- Creation of a unique, inter-faculty and cross-disciplinary building to host 26 research groups;
- Exemplary sustainable construction approach, using recycled and sustainable materials – including a significant amount of wood – as much as possible;
- Enhanced energy efficiency, yet fully compliant with strict technical specifications.
Isometric view of the new Advanced Science Building at EPFL © KAAN Architecten and Celnikier & Grabli Architectes
Contribute
The Advanced Science Building will be critical to future scientific breakthroughs.
If you’d like to contribute to this state-of-the-art research building, please contact our Philanthropy team today.
Catherine Janssens
HEAD OF DONOR ENGAGEMENT
[email protected]