Founders Hall and Innovation Hall

Located in the stunning Founders Hall and Innovation Hall, Elon’s physics program gives students access to advanced scientific equipment, including X-ray and spectroscopic devices as well as atomic force and electron microscopes that magnify objects at molecular and atomic scales. Spanning a combined 60,000 square feet, Physics majors have access to extensive computer facilities, including workstations for computational astrophysics, mathematical analysis, virtual reality, and computer-aided design. An astronomy observing platform and a range of telescopes on the roof of Koury Athletic Center are also available to physics students.

Hunt Atrium

The two-story grand atrium in the core of Founders Hall was made possible through the support of Elon Trustee Vicky Hunt and her husband, Sam. Featuring open collaboration spaces and assembly areas, tiered bench seating and meeting space for group events, the atrium is an inviting entry point to Founders Hall. Its layout will support events such as guest speakers and receptions.

Virtual Reality Lab

The VR Lab offers space for courses to come alive and the ability to research topics in previously unexplored ways as the technology advances. Tony Crider requested the VR lab to enhance astronomy and technology courses through simulations such floating in the International Space Station. Like other IQ spaces, the VR Lab is open to departments and disciplines beyond physics and engineering where students will benefit from experiencing course subjects in 3D.

Astrophysics Lab

The Astrophysics Lab features state-of-the-art computational hardware for students to run analysis on large scale simulations led by Chris Richardson. Access to off site supercomputing clusters allows student researchers to run models in a fraction of the time required on typical computers. Ample whiteboard space gives students the room the express the astrophysical theory behind their work, while a conference room table and wireless TV encourage discussion of recent results with colleagues.

Bioinstrumentation Lab

This lab deepens courses and research led by Ben Evans, particularly in biophysics and exploring microscale processes essential to life, and by Rich Blackmon, for the Bioinstrumentation and Imaging course examining the physical principles underlying diagnostic medical systems. Three dark rooms on the side of the building will house lasers for greater research capability.

Advanced Prototype Lab

Students working to prototype electronic projects will use this space, which is equipped with a large range of electronic tools and equipment including an advanced 3D printer.

Learn more about the Innovation Quad

 

McMichael Science Center

The 81,000-square-foot facility, which houses biology, chemistry, and environmental studies, features teaching labs, student research labs, computers loaded with the most current software, faculty offices, reading and conference rooms, and high-tech instrument packages. These spacious classrooms and laboratories allow students to interact with faculty and other students and work on projects in the same area. In addition, data projectors allow faculty to use technology to enhance their presentations.