After its official announcement in March 2022, the Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology is finally set to open in January 2025. The seven-story building, located next to David Rittenhouse Laboratory on Walnut Street, stands as a testament to Penn’s commitment to advancing research in energy science and sustainability. The Daily Pennsylvanian obtained exclusive access to tour VLEST, exploring its research laboratories, interior design, and sustainable features.

Held on Dec. 12, the opening ceremony included a tribute to Roy and Diana Vagelos, honoring their transformative contributions to the university. The facility took $173 million to construct and was designed to foster collaboration, advance innovation, and support interdisciplinary research in energy and material sciences. At the end of their respective speeches, Interim Penn President Larry Jameson, University Board of Trustees Chair Ramanan Raghavendran, Interim School of Arts and Sciences Dean Jeffrey Kallberg, and Engineering Dean Vijay Kumar thanked Roy and Diana Vagelos for their vision in pioneering a sustainable future. 

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Spanning 112,500 square feet, the building is tailored for sustainability and functionality. Inside, visitors are greeted by a light-filled atrium that serves as a welcoming space for students and faculty. The minimalist design provides a clean and inspiring space that reflects the focus on energy and forward-thinking.

The heart of VLEST lies in its seven main laboratories, each equipped with cutting-edge technology to support research in areas such as renewable energy, battery storage, and advanced material development. The labs are connected by open, collaborative spaces to foster interaction between researchers.

“This building represents the future of energy science research at Penn,” said Professor Karen Goldberg, Director of the Vagelos Institute of Energy Science and Technology and a principal investigator of one of the labs in the building. 

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Another feature of VLEST is its dedicated lounge for the Vagelos Integrated Program in Energy Research students. This central hub is complete with comfortable seating and workspaces, forming a place for VIPER students to brainstorm ideas, study, and innovate. 

Beyond its research capabilities, the building incorporates advanced sustainability features, such as triple-glazed windows for thermal efficiency and high-performance insulation. According to the School of Arts and Sciences, the building’s sunshades reduce the energy required to cool the building by 40%. 

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“The Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology is a central element of Penn’s commitment to creating a sustainable planet,” wrote Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences Steven Fluharty. “VLEST will host the forward-thinking, creative work of Penn’s scientists and engineers and will facilitate the collaborative solutions that the problem demands.”