Optical Science Center for Applied Research

The Optical Science Center for Applied Research (OSCAR) is a state-of-the-art research facility where students, professors, and scientists use cutting edge technologies to help solve real-world problems. The building supports graduate, doctoral, and post-doctoral, programs in optics within the Department of Physics and Pre-Engineering at Delaware State University (DSU). The project addressed space requirements for future growth of the optical research programs and faculty while remedying the inadequacies of the current facilities related to the nature of optical research.

The concept of the new building is built around the prism as an iconic device in optics research. The geometry of the prism transforms the nature of the light passing through it. In the same way, the building is transformed by its reflective skin as it fades into the landscape and sky, its form being defined and dissolved by ambiguities of perceived solidity and transparency.

A myriad of dynamic spaces were created with an interdisciplinary emphasis focused on enhancing opportunities for quality interactions between scientists, students, faculty, staff, and the various research groups to promote the exchange of ideas and collaboration. A mediated 150-seat auditorium allows DSU to host or virtually attend lectures, conferences, and events intended for the sharing of ideas and knowledge.

A portion of the facility will be dedicated to fostering the development of start-up companies built on innovative applications of optical research. The Incubator will offer on-site office, and optical laboratory accommodations, as well as access to the other resources within the building. Moreover, it will give entrepreneurs the opportunity to work closely with principal university investigators, and students to develop their ideas into marketable products and create ties between the academic and private sectors.