The Edward B. Fort Interdisciplinary Research Center
As the original Bluford Library, this building served as the campus library from the early 1950's until 1991. After extensive renovation, the Fort Interdisciplinary Research Center now houses research laboratories and offices of the Division of Research and Economic Development.
The building plan is organized around a central atrium space with a monumental staircase extending from the first floor to the fourth floor reception area with a large central skylight. The atrium is dominated by the multi-story “research helix” – a mobile featuring the logos of many of the university’s major research funders. The design of the building focuses on creating architectural spaces that foster collaboration and encourage interaction among the various occupants of the center.
A highlight of the building is The Faces of Science, a four-part mural at the top of the atrium on the fourth floor. It depicts 46 leading African American inventors and scientists.
The building is named for Dr. Edward B. Fort, the eighth chancellor of N.C. A&T. He served in the position from 1981 to 1999.
The DORED offices are on the third and fourth floors. The third floor houses the Office of Research Services, Office of Undergraduate Research, and the office of the Facility Manager. On the fourth floor are two conference rooms, the office of the vice chancellor and other administrators, the Office of Outreach and Economic Development, the Office of Sponsored Programs, the Office of Research Compliance and Ethics, and the office of the director of research communications.
Where we are
The IRC is located on East Market Street, with the College of Engineering buildings (McNair, Cherry and Graham) on the left side as you face the campus on East Market Street and Gibbs and Hines halls on the right.
Visitor parking is available in the Laurel Avenue Parking Deck, behind Bluford Library on the right side of Laurel Avenue as you enter the campus from East Market Street. Handicapped parking for the IRC is located in the parking lot next to the building to the west, which is accessible from Nocho Street. This parking lot also provides access to the loading dock.
