Yale University Write lab | Upper Science Hill Development, Phase 1

Watson is supporting Yale University’s Wright Lab as part of Phase 1 of the Upper Science Hill Development—an ambitious reimagining of the northern edge of Science Hill as a world-class center for quantum science, engineering, materials research, and advanced instrumentation. The work includes a 76,800-square-foot research facility replacing existing laboratory and office space, together with a new mechanical penthouse and utility tunnels.

Watson’s scope draws on its ground-up infrastructure experience, including site utilities, electrical duct banks, sanitary and stormwater systems, domestic water, and fire protection. This foundational work will help support highly specialized laboratories and the precise, resilient building systems required for advanced scientific research.

The broader first phase includes an addition to Wright Lab and the new Advanced Instrumentation Development Center—a university-wide research resource created in response to priorities identified through Yale’s science strategy. Both were reported as targeting completion in 2026. 

Upper Science Hill is ultimately planned as a development of more than 600,000 gross square feet—one of the largest capital investments in Yale’s history. Its supporting infrastructure also includes a new thermal-utility system and geothermal borefield designed to serve the Wright Lab Addition and other buildings with heating, cooling, alternate power, and fire-protection capacity.