The University of Missouri Board of Curators and university leaders broke ground today (Thursday, April 18) to celebrate a major expansion and renovation of a research complex on Missouri University of Science and Technology’s campus in Rolla.

The board also voted to change the name of the facility from Engineering Research Laboratory to Applied Research Center. The change reflects the facility’s evolution from a traditional laboratory setting to a hub of innovation, partnership and discovery that fosters a collaborative research environment.

“This facility is an integral part of our continuous efforts to enhance Missouri S&T’s research capabilities and infrastructure,” says Dr. Mo Dehghani, chancellor of Missouri S&T. “The new name will embody the forward-thinking and applied research initiatives that are the hallmark of S&T’s contribution to the world of science, engineering and technology.”

The Applied Research Center will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including a 33,000 square-foot addition and extensive renovations to support the complex and interdisciplinary nature of modern applied research.

During the board’s meeting, Dehghani updated the curators on Missouri S&T highlights, which included recognizing a student and an employee for administering lifesaving CPR to a student earlier this semester.

The curators also approved Missouri S&T’s strategic plan, following a presentation by Dr. Colin Potts, provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs.