An Interdisciplinary Hub for Discovery

Situated along the waterfront of the flowing Hillsborough River, the Dickey Science Innovation Center at the University of Tampa supports the University’s growing efforts to provide a “home for science,” where students can gather, learn and discover in one centralized hub. With a host of state-of-the-art teaching labs for a variety of disciplines, the Dickey Science Innovation Center advances new lines of research in an environment that encourages students to pursue scientific discovery and establishes opportunities for seamless interactions among faculty and students.

Research Rooted in Place

Conceived as a functional yet welcoming environment, the five-story facility features a sustainable and comfortable design. Elements such as intuitive wayfinding and opportunities for community-centred artwork provide students with doses of creativity and ease, while abundant natural daylight and connection to the outdoor landscape represent a focus on biophilia and student wellbeing. The building’s resemblance to the form of a branch serves as a reference to the branching of the nearby Hillsborough River; three arms extend from a centre hub, with each arm containing labs, collaboration areas and focus spaces while providing views of the river and city beyond.

Key features include:

• Active areas for collaboration and circulation and designated quiet work areas for focus and concentration 
• Visual connectivity between laboratories and the public corridors that puts scientific research on display and establishes an engaging environment 
• Peer-to-peer project rooms designed for seamless collaboration opportunities between students 
• Write-up areas that double as research spaces for students and a home base for faculty and students to work together
• A student-centred layout that prioritises a focus on biophilic design, flexibility, and collaboration spaces 

A Catalyst for Collaboration

With a focus on research, learning, collaboration and connection to nature, the Dickey Science Innovation Center acts as a catalyst for innovation and community on the University of Tampa campus, positing it as a functional yet sophisticated academic environment to enhance connections and provide opportunities for hands-on discovery and innovation.