Science and Engineering Building

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Science and Engineering Building (SEB)?

The SEB is the only building on the UNLV campus designed specifically for research. Its mission is to provide a state-of-the-art research environment to foster collaboration and interaction among the disciplines of science and engineering; to optimize lab space and operational systems to gain functional efficiency in the circulation of people, data, and materials; to utilize sustainable design principles to conserve water, energy, and natural resources; and to accommodate future growth.

What is the history of the SEB?

The vision for the SEB began to take shape more than a decade ago as community and state leaders, including then-Gov. Kenny Guinn, key legislators, and members of the Nevada Development Authority and the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, identified economic diversification as one of the state’s top priorities. They highlighted the need to provide additional space for the education of a highly sophisticated workforce and for research on new technologies with commercialization potential that would support a more diverse Nevada economy. In the meantime, enrollment growth had placed heavy demands on UNLV’s engineering and sciences colleges. It became clear a new science and engineering facility would be critical to the future of UNLV and Nevada. University, government, and the private-sector representatives recognized a shared interest in building such a facility and began to commit time and resources to advocating it. Support for the new building expanded, and it moved from the university’s wish list to the top of the state’s planning and construction project list. The building was approved by the 2001-03 Nevada Legislature; construction started in 2005, and a phased move-in and commissioning of equipment has been under way since construction was completed in early 2009.

What are some of the building’s features?

Specifically designed for interdisciplinary research, the SEB contains integrated research space with a number of state-of-the-art flexible laboratories, as well as a 200-seat auditorium. The SEB received a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver Rating for its environmentally responsible and sustainable design, construction, and operation standards. The building design also received the 2004 Citation Award in the Unbuilt Category in the Nevada Design Awards, sponsored by the American Institute of Architects. The SEB was also acknowledged by the Las Vegas Business Press in its 2009 Green Awards for Best Green Practices in the Building Category.

Who built the SEB?

The building was designed by the architecture firm Dekker/Perich/Sabatini, and it was constructed by Sletten Companies.

How can I schedule a tour of SEB?

Tours are available to the public and may be scheduled through the SEB Administrative Offices, which can be reached at 702-774-4732. When calling, please provide information on how many people are in the tour group and what the group’s special interests are.

How would I schedule an event in the SEB auditorium, classroom, or lobby?

To host an event in the SEB, please contact the SEB Administrative Offices at 702-774-4732.

How do I use the SEB Core Laboratories/Facilities for my research?

Core lab/facilities are available for use by UNLV faculty, staff, and students as well as researchers affiliated with other organizations. In order to schedule use of a core facility, please contact the SEB Administrative Offices at 702-774-4732; you will be directed to the manager of the given core lab/facility.

What are the SEB hours?

The building is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The SEB is primarily a research building; only faculty and staff who have been granted special access may enter after hours.