The Biology Department is excited to announce its annual research open house on Wednesday, January 15, which will feature the grand opening of the new Experimental Plant Investigation Center (EPIC). This state-of-the-art greenhouse facility will enhance research opportunities for faculty and students in biology, biochemistry, environmental science, and more, with a primary focus on climate change, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem studies in both urban and rural settings.
The celebration will start with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in room B135 of the Cathy ’83 and Marc ’81 Lasry Center for Bioscience on Maywood Street. Attendees are invited to enjoy refreshments at 1 p.m., followed by the formal program beginning at 1:30 p.m. Notable guests expected include Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty, State Senator Robyn Kennedy, and State Representative John Mahoney, along with representatives from local agencies.
The EPIC facility spans 1,275 square feet and is designed for research under strict controls to prevent cross-contamination, as mandated for federally-funded projects. It includes a head house, general grow space, and specialized research rooms managed by Biology Professors Chandra Jack and Kaitlyn Mathis, both of whom concentrate on plant interactions.
The advanced design of the EPIC lab includes customizable remote control of humidity, temperature, and irrigation, featuring energy-efficient LED lighting and minimal window space compared to traditional university greenhouses. Its 100% electric heating and cooling system is integrated with Clark’s cogeneration campus loop.
The open house will also highlight research presentations from biology students and faculty between 2 and 4 p.m., culminating with a keynote address from Lily Khadempour, assistant professor at Rutgers University. Her lecture will focus on insect-microbial symbiosis and is part of the Spring 2025 Biology Seminar Series.
This event not only showcases innovative research but also symbolizes a positive step towards advancing scientific inquiry and sustainability practices within the campus community. The EPIC lab is poised to be a vital resource for fostering important environmental research and elevating academic collaboration.