The research teams of ESPCI Paris - PSL are moving.

Starting in November, the teams of seven joint research units of ESPCI Paris – PSL will occupy state-of-the-art laboratories, marking a major turning point in the school’s history.

The first phase of construction of the new campus, initiated at the end of 2020, is concluding, giving rise to a cutting-edge research center adhering to the latest technological and environmental standards. This milestone precedes the complete renovation of ESPCI, scheduled for 2026, providing the school with the means to pursue its new ambitions in research, innovation, recruitment, learning, professional training, and start-up accommodation.

Becoming more attractive and competitive

Built in 1882 and expanded in the 1930s and 1990, ESPCI is now undergoing a renovation and restructuring project led by the City of Paris and designed by architect Anne Démians. The objective is to enhance the school’s attractiveness within the university and research hub of Montagne Sainte-Geneviève and to make it more competitive nationally and internationally. ESPCI will be able to offer researchers and students technical and teaching spaces that facilitate optimal research activities.

Move-in by late 2023

The end of this year marks the completion of the first phase of construction. The delivery of a new 18,700 m2 building allows 7 out of 10 joint research units of ESPCI to move in, providing engineering students with access to modern classrooms and laboratories for their practical work. "Our researchers and students will finally benefit from optimal research and work conditions," explains Vincent Croquette, the school’s director. "These new facilities are designed to encourage collaboration between teams and thus foster the emergence of new ideas and discoveries. They offer a stimulating environment for our community."

Technical and environmental specifics

Special attention has been given to acoustics and vibrations to meet research requirements, including isolating stairs and delivery ramps, acoustic insulation on partitions, and reinforced flooring in certain areas. Designed to address current environmental challenges, the tertiary spaces comply with RT 2012, and the entire building aligns with the goals of the City of Paris Climate Plan through the installation of photovoltaic panels, rainwater harvesting, and an energy consumption limiting system.

Future entrance facing PSL

The completion of the second phase of construction in late 2026 will relocate the main entrance of the school to Place Alfred-Kastler, creating a more significant opening towards the city and other institutions of the PSL university. The future building on the campus’s periphery will host spaces dedicated to student life, amphitheaters, practical work rooms, offices for the school’s administration, and the remaining laboratories. "The arrival of researchers in these state-of-the-art laboratories will further strengthen ESPCI’s position as a major player in education and research in France and internationally," says Vincent Croquette, director of ESPCI Paris – PSL.

« The arrival of researchers in these state-of-the-art laboratories will further strengthen ESPCI’s position as a major player in education and research in France and internationally."
Vincent Croquette, Director of ESPCI Paris – PSL