University of Memphis, Edwards Research and Innovation Center (ERIC)

To support its ambition of achieving Carnegie R1 research university status and to build upon the strength of its STEM programs, the University of Memphis planned a new center for STEM instruction, innovation, and competition—an initiative that played a key role in reaching that prestigious designation. It sought to add advanced research laboratories and hands-on workspaces where students could develop real-world skills while collaborating with teams and industry partners. As outlined in the campus master plan developed by SmithGroup, university leaders identified a gateway site at the eastern edge of campus, adjacent to the Herff College of Engineering building.   

SmithGroup, in partnership with A2H as Architect and Engineer of Record, designed the Edwards Research & Innovation Center (ERIC) as an active hive of experimentation and shared discovery. The programming process included input from recent alumni now in the workforce and features specialty labs, fabrication shops and testing facilities that will prepare graduates with relevant STEM skills that are in demand. The building is purposely positioned to be a gateway for campus, connected to the engineering school, where its highly visible workspaces will strengthen interest in and support of the university’s STEM curriculum.  

The building design is a three-story bar with transparent exhibit spaces at each end. It connects to the College of Engineering complex, forming a u-shaped Innovation Courtyard for demonstrations and use by competition teams. Much of the first level is devoted to high-bay fabrication work spaces that can flex for different size and material needs, and specialty research labs for earthquake science, advanced manufacturing, agriculture technology and more, specifically designed to withstand the rigors of heavy equipment and sensitive monitoring devices. Active for much of the day and evening, it is a lively STEM center where students work on capstone projects, participate in student club activities and competition teams, and engage in training programs with industry partners.   

The second level is largely devoted to classrooms and instructional labs. The third level houses a data sciences suite, computer information systems lab, BSL-2 biomaterials lab and classrooms shared with the College of Arts and Sciences.

Recognizing the challenging curriculum for STEM students, the ERIC provides a number of collaboration areas for studying and relaxing, from outdoor patio seating to elevated nooks overlooking campus through the mature tree canopy. By creating an engaging, inclusive home for STEM studies, the University of Memphis is building a strong program that will benefit students, industry and the workforce for decades to come.