Photo courtesy of USF
By Laura Troyer
The University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee will soon break ground on a $6.5 million STEM academic facility, adding new labs for biology, chemistry and physics while expanding opportunities for science students across campuses.
Approved by the USF Board of Trustees Finance Committee in August, the 7,000-square-foot building will include modern labs, prep areas and equipment. Construction is expected to begin within 12 to 18 months, with a projected opening in the fall of 2027.
The new facility replaces Sarasota-Manatee’s reliance on leased lab space at Mote Marine Laboratory, which expired in May. For now, the campus is leasing space at the Roskamp Institute.
“This project represents a major step forward in our commitment to STEM education and student success,” Interim Regional Chancellor Brett E. Kemker said in a university press release. “It will eliminate the need for off-campus lab leases, reduce travel burdens for students and faculty, and support the growth of programs such as nursing and other STEM disciplines.”
The Sarasota-Manatee expansion is reflective of USF’s efforts to strengthen its STEM program, creating more opportunities for students systemwide in fields that are increasingly vital to the university and the region.
