Henson Science Hall

The Henson Science Hall at Salisbury University stands as a centerpiece for scientific research and education on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The 145,000-square-foot facility brings together teaching, research, and collaboration across multiple disciplines, housing the Departments of Biology and Environmental Health, Chemistry, Physics and Engineering, Geography, and Mathematics and Computer Science.

Designed to replace two aging campus buildings, the science complex features a diverse range of laboratories, lecture rooms, and collaborative learning spaces, including a 400-square-foot vivarium, specialized research suites, and advanced instructional labs. Together, these spaces provide a flexible academic environment that supports faculty research and student learning in a technology-rich setting.

Engineering for Precision and Performance

Mueller Associates provided complete mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection engineering design for this major academic and research facility. The building’s MEP systems were developed to support the complex and variable environmental requirements of university-level laboratories while achieving long-term energy efficiency and reliability.

Highlights of the engineering design include:

• State-of-the-art variable air volume (VAV) laboratory system, including VAV fume hoods and pressurization controls for safety and flexibility

• Five supply air handling units and two central exhaust systems with energy recovery between outdoor and exhaust air streams

• Dual-fuel cast-iron boilers and a primary/secondary hot water distribution system for robust and efficient heating

• Two 600-ton electric centrifugal chillers provide cooling redundancy and reliability

• Comprehensive lab piping systems for pure water, vacuum, compressed air, and laboratory waste, alongside domestic water and sanitary systems

• Zoned wet-pipe sprinkler system with dedicated fire pump for full life-safety protection

These systems provide the precise environmental control needed for sensitive research and laboratory instruction, while maintaining energy efficiency and operational resilience.

Supporting the Future of Science and Sustainability

Henson Science Hall exemplifies Salisbury University’s mission to advance STEM education and sustainable campus development. The integration of energy recovery systems, variable volume air handling, and high-efficiency equipment significantly reduces energy use and operational costs, positioning the facility as one of the university’s most technically advanced buildings.

Through collaboration with faculty, researchers, and administrators, Mueller’s engineering team created an adaptable, high-performance infrastructure designed to serve future generations of scientists and innovators.