Fermilab Integrated Engineering Research Center
The Fermilab Integrated Engineering Research Center (IERC) is where the boundaries of particle physics are pushed, and the future of science takes shape. This 90,000-square-foot facility, located on Fermilab’s central campus near the iconic Wilson Hall, is a purpose-built home for groundbreaking research and engineering. Designed to support pioneering work on initiatives like the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment, the IERC provides state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborative spaces that empower scientists and engineers to solve some of the universe’s greatest mysteries.
A symbol of Fermilab’s legacy and innovation, the IERC bridges the past and future of discovery, fostering a culture of exploration that inspires the next generation of scientific breakthroughs.
Collaboration is the heartbeat of scientific progress. The IERC strengthens Fermilab’s campus by physically and intellectually linking engineering teams with the researchers who rely on their expertise. A transparent, bridge-like connection to Wilson Hall ensures a seamless flow of people and ideas, turning proximity into possibility. Daylit laboratories and visible workspaces put science on display, reinforcing an open, knowledge-sharing culture. The result is a research environment designed to accelerate breakthroughs—one that invites curiosity, fosters connection, and supports the collective pursuit of discovery.
Wilson Hall has stood as an icon of Fermilab’s bold vision for more than 50 years. The IERC continues that legacy—respecting its predecessor while forging its own identity. A restrained material palette and rhythmic structural elements reflect Fermilab’s commitment to precision. The result is a building that balances form and function—a space that not only supports scientific inquiry but embodies it.
Particle physics pushes the boundaries of what’s possible—and the spaces that support it must do the same. The IERC is Fermilab’s first purpose-built facility integrating engineering and research, bringing together scientists and engineers to collaborate in real time. Designed for adaptability, its modular laboratories and specialized research spaces can evolve with emerging technologies, ensuring it remains at the forefront of discovery. From advancing neutrino detection for the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) to refining next-generation particle accelerators, the IERC is a catalyst for scientific breakthroughs—built for today, ready for what’s next.
Innovation and responsibility go hand in hand. The IERC integrates sustainability into every aspect of its design, preparing Fermilab’s campus for a resilient future. A 20,000-square-foot green roof provides insulation and stormwater management, mitigating the effects of a changing climate. High-performance mechanical systems reduce energy demand, while expansive windows maximize natural daylight, creating a healthy and efficient workspace. Even the building’s connection to Wilson Hall plays a role—reducing the need for redundant infrastructure while reinforcing a culture of shared resources. The IERC doesn’t just house scientific discovery—it ensures that the environment supporting it endures.
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