Show-Me State Times

The University of Missouri is embarking on the construction of an Energy Innovation Center, a facility designed to foster advancements in energy systems. Approved by the University of Missouri Board of Curators, this 116,000-square-foot center is scheduled to open near Lafferre Hall in 2028. It aims to be more than just a research building; it will serve as a hub for significant discoveries in energy technology and aid in recruiting new faculty experts.

Todd Graves, chair of the Board of Curators, stated, “We are excited about advancing our mission in energy innovation and discovery. Research relating to energy creation, distribution and performance is critically important.” He emphasized that the facility would promote multidisciplinary collaboration and attract leading minds to address global energy challenges.

Researchers from various fields such as engineering, physics, computer science, chemistry, and biochemistry will collaborate within the center to enhance energy production, storage, and distribution. University President Mun Choi highlighted the importance of the center by saying, “The Energy Innovation Center is essential to addressing our nation’s security, workforce and economic growth.”

The center will concentrate on areas like nuclear energy, AI-driven grid efficiency and security. Marisa Chrysochoou, dean of the College of Engineering remarked on Mizzou's potential contributions: “With our strengths in nuclear and materials science, AI, and cybersecurity... This is about integrating research, education and community engagement.”

Cooper Drury from the College of Arts and Science stressed the need for effective policy alongside technological advances: “Technology alone won’t solve all of our energy challenges... We need effective policy to keep pace with innovation.”

The Energy Innovation Center represents a partnership among several colleges at Mizzou including Engineering; Arts and Science; Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR); Law; Business; and Journalism. Christopher Daubert from CAFNR noted its significance: “Breakthroughs in energy sustainability... are essential for Missouri — and the world.”