Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture advances food safety, nutrition, and sustainable agricultural practices through innovative research and education. The new Food and Animal Sciences Building, home to the Center for Food Safety and Process Innovation, supports this mission by providing equitable, flexible, and modular research environments. Our design, in collaboration with Kline Swinney Associates, enhances interdisciplinary collaboration through the strategic organization of research clusters and shared resources across floors.
The building integrates public and private research functions through an access-controlled corridor, ensuring secure laboratory environments while fostering engagement with the broader student population. Standardized laboratory layouts with adaptable casework, ample utilities, and shared resources empower researchers to modify spaces as scientific practices evolve, reinforcing TSU’s vision of becoming a global leader in food research. Thoughtful sitting and orientation of the building maximizes natural light penetration, elevating the user experience and promoting wellbeing within this state-of-the-art facility.
The new 65,500-SF, three-story Food and Animal Sciences Building support a wide range of research and academic activities. The facility houses state-of-the-art research laboratories, teaching laboratories, and laboratory support spaces, providing a cutting-edge environment for scientific inquiry and instruction. Lecture halls, classrooms, and offices dispersed among collective workspaces and support facilities foster collaboration among students, faculty, and researchers. Specialized spaces, including equipment rooms, sterilization rooms, and a multipurpose room, enhance the building’s versatility and accommodate diverse academic and research functions. Modular laboratories feature a standardized kit of parts, ensuring equity and adaptability for all users. Controlled access to research areas and visible connections between public hallways and labs prioritize safety and security. Designed for future adaptability, the facility includes robust power, data, and gas connections to support evolving scientific needs. Positioned for seamless expansion, the building’s intuitive layout and straightforward circulation create an optimal environment for learning and discovery.
