The Optical Science Center for Applied Research (OSCAR) is a state-of-the-art research facility where students, professors, and scientists use cutting edge technologies to help solve real-world problems. The building supports graduate, doctoral, and post-doctoral, programs in optics within the Department of Physics and Pre-Engineering at Delaware State University (DSU) and addresses space requirements for future growth of the optical research programs and faculty while remedying the inadequacies of the current facilities related to the nature of optical research.

The identity and experience of the OSCAR is shaped by the geometry and optical properties of a prism as an iconic device in optics research transforming the light it reflects and refracts. The architecture mimics the prism’s triangular form transformed by its mirrored skin, its surfaces being defined and dissolved by ambiguities of perceived solidity and transparency. Architecturally, the design promotes a prominent identity for the renown optics programs at the University to its campus and scientific community at large, reflective of the worldclass status they have achieved in optics education, research, and application.

Internally, functions are simply and rationally organized to economize building systems and structure and promote interaction. Laboratory spaces requiring services, ventilation, and vibration control are grouped at one edge of the triangular floorplate with offices arrayed along the other two. At the center an open stair rises within a daylit shaft connects the lobby and floors above with collaboration spaces aggregated around it at each level.

The earliest stage of the project included working closely with the University and principal researchers to define, envision, budget, and master plan an ambitious program as a phased two-building complex with the first prioritizing critical functions to support ongoing research and initiate ties between academic and private sectors. A portion of the facility is dedicated to fostering the development of start-up companies built on applications of optical research by enabling onsite collaboration, and access to lab space and shared facilities. Similarly, an imaging center was included with the similar intent of providing access for companies and external users to state-of-the-art instruments and expertise for imaging and analysis.

OSCAR delivered easily adapted technical research environments needed to sustain and expand innovative grant funded research within a collaborative setting. Its completion bolsters the University’s reputation as a research institution, provides the means to retain key researchers and recruit new talent, and creates unique opportunities for students. As the first building on campus designed to meet LEED silver standards OSCAR utilizes an active chilled beam system and heat recovery for lab exhaust as part of an energy efficient HVAC strategy. As envisioned, the imaging center has become a valuable shared resource for the scientific research community and industry.