Clark University has recently unveiled the Experimental Plant Investigation Center (EPIC), a state-of-the-art greenhouse designed to advance scientific research in sustainable agriculture, climate change, and food security. Located at the Cathy and Marc Lasry Center for Bioscience, this innovative 1,725-square-foot facility is poised to support cutting-edge research with significant implications for both local and global environmental challenges.
The opening event on January 15, 2025, marked the beginning of a new chapter in plant science research. Clark’s President David Fithian, alongside distinguished guests including Worcester’s Mayor Joseph Petty and local educators, celebrated the opening of EPIC, which is expected to foster innovative solutions to some of the most pressing issues in agriculture and conservation.
EPIC is especially significant for the Clark community, with professors Chandra Jack and Kaitlyn Mathis spearheading research projects aimed at exploring sustainable farming practices, climate-related efforts, and biodiversity conservation. Both professors have distinct “grow areas” within the greenhouse, allowing them to conduct specialized research while avoiding contamination of plants, insects, and microbes. The flexibility of the space ensures that future research will be unhindered by cross-contamination, a crucial feature for high-quality scientific investigation.
The new greenhouse will not only benefit Clark’s biology department but also engage students and faculty from various disciplines, including environmental science, biochemistry, and ecology. Jack and Mathis have already begun exploring how EPIC can contribute to public health and food systems by potentially enhancing crop yields and reducing the need for harmful pesticides. Their work aims to support farmers, improve food security, and safeguard ecosystems.
For students, the EPIC lab offers more than just a space for advanced research. The common area within the greenhouse will be available for use in classes, including those focused on restoration ecology and biodiversity. Undergraduate students from Clark’s Herban Gardeners club, as well as those in other environmental programs, are already looking forward to utilizing the space for urban gardening projects on campus.
The opening of EPIC is not just an academic achievement; it also reflects Clark University’s commitment to sustainability. Unlike traditional greenhouses, EPIC utilizes LED lighting and energy-efficient design elements, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. Powered entirely by electric heating and cooling, the facility is connected to Clark’s cogeneration campus loop, making it one of the most environmentally friendly research spaces in the region.
The impact of EPIC extends beyond Clark’s academic boundaries. The greenhouse will serve as a hub for collaboration between Clark faculty, local community organizations, and researchers from other institutions. This interconnectedness is key to addressing global climate challenges and developing innovative agricultural solutions that are both sustainable and scalable.
Looking ahead, Clark’s new School of Climate, Environment, and Society, slated to open in Fall 2025, will further enhance the research opportunities available through EPIC. The school will consolidate the university’s ongoing work in environmental science, climate studies, and sustainable agriculture, amplifying its contributions to solving global environmental crises.
In conclusion, the EPIC greenhouse is a game-changer for Clark University, offering an unparalleled space for research, education, and community engagement. Its opening represents a significant step toward advancing sustainable agricultural practices, protecting biodiversity, and preparing students to lead in addressing the challenges of climate change. The innovative work being done within EPIC has the potential to influence policy, inform public health strategies, and transform farming practices on a global scale.
With the new EPIC facility, Clark is poised to become a leader in environmental research and sustainability, offering valuable solutions that could help shape a more sustainable and food-secure future.