The Technological Institute
Northwestern University made a pivotal investment in scientific research with the construction of the Technological Institute, a state-of-the-art facility designed to foster both individual exploration and interdisciplinary collaboration. Completed in 1941, the 'Tech' building features a sprawling design with six wings, one for each academic department. By uniting multiple scientific disciplines under one roof, the university cultivated a culture of cross-disciplinary research, leading to groundbreaking achievements. Northwestern’s progressive work in the emerging field of Materials Science was recognized in 1960 when it received one of the first three Materials Science grants from the Department of Defense. This milestone spurred the expansion of the Technological Institute in 1962, providing additional lab space for the flourishing chemistry program and further solidifying the university as a leader in interdisciplinary scientific research.
Architect rendering of Technological Institute
1941 Aerial view of the Technological Institute
1961 Tech Building Expansion
All images collected from Northwestern University Library Archives.