Science and Engineering Complex (SEC)

Description of Science and Engineering Complex (SEC)

The Science and Engineering Complex (SEC) consists of a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient research wing combined with Tufts’ historic Robinson and Anderson Halls. It houses the Dean and Graduate Education Dean of the School of Engineering along with the Departments of Biology, Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering, as well as the Allen Discovery Center, the Nolop Makerspace, Kindlevan Café, and numerous classrooms and research labs.

Project Design Priorities

Innovation and Collaboration
This space is designed to function as a dynamic center of research on campus, and to embody Tufts’ commitment to blending the resources of a top-tier research institution with the interdisciplinary education and collaborative project-based work of a smaller institution.

Community, Connections, and Well-Being
The Nolop Makerspace, numerous shared gathering spaces, an art gallery in the atrium, and Kindlevan Café provide unique gathering spaces for students, faculty, and staff to socialize, get creative, nourish themselves, and unwind.

Sustainability
The Science and Engineering Complex (SEC) uses 70% less energy than a typical lab building and is certified LEED Gold. Instead of demolishing existing buildings and starting anew, the project joined together Robinson Hall and Anderson Hall. This reduced carbon emissions during the building process and reused a large amount of building material.

The SEC has received recognition for its state-of-the art sustainable design, including:

• BSA Sustainable Design Award and an International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories Go Beyond Award. Read more about what makes the SEC energy efficient and a recipient of the Boston Society for Architecture's 2021 Sustainable Design Awards.
• 2022 COTE Top Ten Award, the industry’s best-known award program for sustainable design excellence.

The SEC also features:

• triple glazing on windows for temperature control
• a solar panel array
• ample natural light
• a rainwater capture system
• an ethical food sourcing café
• efficient heating and cooling, including a heat recovery system that re-captures up to 72% of the building's heat that would otherwise be wasted

Learn more about the SEC from Tufts' Office of Sustainability

Accessibility
The SEC includes an accessible central elevator and restrooms on each level and accessible entrances on the lower, ground, and first levels. Other accessible amenities include six all-gender restrooms on three floors and one lactation room.

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