The UW College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) is preparing to launch a capital campaign to fund a new, cutting-edge Chemical Sciences Building (CSB), slated to open in 2028. The new building will replace all existing chemistry research labs in Bagley Hall and the Chemistry Library Building and will propel UW Chemistry into the next generation of research and teaching excellence.
Many of the world’s most complex challenges will be addressed through interdisciplinary research in the chemical sciences. As one of the largest undergraduate chemistry programs in the nation with faculty at the top of their research fields, UW Chemistry is uniquely positioned to develop innovative solutions—from advances in clean energy to quantum science and technology to healthcare. Across fields including computer science/technology, engineering, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and more, our department provides a direct pipeline of talented chemistry graduates to fuel the state of Washington's workforce.
Investing in Impact
The new Chemical Sciences Building will revolutionize research and hands-on teaching in the chemical sciences, with far-reaching benefits for UW students, faculty, local industry and beyond. It will:
- Improve interdisciplinary learning and support hands-on undergraduate research.
- Attract and retain world-class faculty and graduate students.
- Foster creative research to address pressing global problems.
- Support increased grant funding for cutting-edge research.
- Strengthen existing relationships with industry partners and foster strategic public/private collaborations.
- Create a strong pipeline of chemistry graduates to meet workforce needs in computer science, engineering, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.
- Provide modern facilities that utilize advanced technology and enhance safety for innovative teaching and research.
Located for Collaboration
- The CSB will be constructed on the current site of the Chemistry Library Building, adjacent to the Chemistry Building, Bagley Hall, the Molecular Engineering and Sciences Building, and the Nanoengineering and Sciences Building.
- This location creates a chemical sciences cluster of excellence and interdisciplinary research.
- Interdisciplinary collocation will encourage discovery through synergy.
Timeline
Early 2024
- The State Legislature approved $5M in the supplemental budget request for the pre-design of a new building.
- The UW Board of Regents approved the execution of the Chemical Sciences Building project.
Late 2024
- Design build team will be hired.
- UW will request $125M in funding from the state for construction in the next biennium.
Early 2025
- UW will launch a capital campaign.