Grant Money Sparks Innovation for Dean College's Science Center

Thanks to generous grants from the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC) and the George I. Alden Trust, Dean College is fortunate to unveil many new upgrades to our Arthur W. Peirce Center for Technology and Science facilities. With the introduction of advanced scientific equipment and modernized labs, Dean is well-prepared to support our students and add new offerings within the sciences.

“We are thrilled to be growing our science offerings here at Dean and the grants from the MLSC and Alden Trust have been integral in allowing us to bring advanced equipment and innovative technologies to our students,” said Dr. Scott Sibley, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “These new upgrades are really going to allow for signature student experiences and advanced scientific work and can be utilized across the sciences and in multiple courses. It will also ensure Dean remains competitive and relevant and prepares our students to join the workforce in a variety of roles.”

New equipment and facilities introduced for student use include:

• UV visible spectrophotometer and nine additional CCD array spectrophotometers
• High-performance liquid chromatograph
• Tissue culture equipment
• Virtual reality goggles and software for anatomy and physiology
• 10X binocular microscopes
• Data collection platform with sensors for EKG, blood pressure, heart rate monitoring, temperature, etc.  
• Hot plates
• Ice machine
• Balances
• New laboratory casework, cabinets, sinks, countertops
• 7 chemical fume hoods
• Reconfigured laboratory spaces

Students have already begun to use the new equipment and facilities, and Dean soon expects to be able to offer organic chemistry for pre-med and pre-health requirements to better prepare those pursuing medical school and other life science careers that require a chemistry background.

The upgrades are also supporting the growth of new programs recently introduced at Dean, including pre-physician assistant and pre-physical therapy tracks in biology; pre-athletic training and pre-physical therapy tracks in exercise science; and a new minor in public health.

The College’s new tracks in pre-physician assistant, pre-physical therapy and pre-athletic training were developed to address increased student demand and better prepare students to pursue advanced degrees and certifications in these fields. The new minor in public health aims to explore the intersection of science and policy and appeal to students interested in health-related careers.

“Dean’s new programs build on our solid foundation and will provide students with additional options for exploration and career opportunities,” said Dr. Sibley. “All of these programs keep our excellent teaching and mentorship at the core, part of what we call The Dean Difference.”

By growing our programs, the College will be able to support the increasing demand for well-trained lab technicians and research assistants in the local life sciences industry, as well as additional opportunities in manufacturing, project management and sales.