University of Wisconsin-River Falls Science and Technology innovation Center (SCITECH)

The Science and Technology (SciTech) Center is a three-story, 130,000-square-foot laboratory building that serves as the new home for the Biology, Chemistry/Biotechnology, Physics, and Psychology/Neuroscience departments at UW-River Falls.

The facility includes teaching and research laboratories, offices, informal learning spaces, and a University-Business Collaboration Center designed to support innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

GRAEF provided structural engineering services for the facility, designing a system that supports large, flexible laboratory spaces while meeting stringent vibration requirements for sensitive scientific equipment. A two-way reinforced concrete waffle slab was designed to minimize vibrations from building operations and occupant movement, creating an environment that supports advanced research and teaching activities. The design also provides long-term flexibility, allowing laboratory spaces to adapt to future needs and renovations.