Montclair State University broke ground July 22 on a $120 million Interdisciplinary Science Building.

University leaders say that the 110,000-square-foot facility will expand research opportunities, triple on-campus science laboratory space and strengthen STEM education when it opens for the 2028-29 academic year.

The project is supported in part by a $60 million capital facilities grant from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education. It will house teaching and research laboratories for chemistry, physics and interdisciplinary science programs, along with feature technology-enabled classrooms, faculty workspaces, student collaboration areas and a flexible event space.

The building will feature an Imaginarium for data analysis and immersive visualization, the university’s first indoor-outdoor classroom, a rooftop terrace overlooking the New York City skyline, and a fourth-floor space designed to house a partnering organization. Built to LEED Silver standards, the facility will also incorporate solar energy and sustainable landscape features, including a native rain garden, bioswale and a dry steam bed.

University officials said the project builds on Montclair State’s growing research profile. The R2 high-research institution reported $45.43 million in research expenditures in 2025. It currently graduates more minority STEM students than any other college or university in New Jersey.

More than a building

MSU President Jonathan Koppell said the investment reflects a long-term commitment to student success, experience and academic excellence.

“At Montclair, we strive to offer an academic experience that is both accessible and excellent. The Interdisciplinary Science Building is part of that commitment,” said Koppell. “Fulfilling our mission requires constant innovation and investment to ensure we provide the best experience possible for our students. By creating modern laboratories, collaborative spaces and research opportunities, we ensure our students receive an education worthy of their investment while preparing them to shape the future of New Jersey.”

Interim Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Fatma Mili said the building represents more than a construction project.

“This building will be more than a structure, it is a commitment,” Mili said. “A commitment to a transformational way of practicing science.”

Lora Billings, dean of the College of Science and Mathematics, said: “The new Interdisciplinary Science Building will dramatically change the experience for science students at Montclair State University. By providing larger, more accessible state-of-the-art lab facilities, in addition to all of the available spaces for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, we will be preparing students with the tools they need to enter the workforce as productive scientists of the future.”