Four science labs receive state-of-the-art renovations

Imagine a life-sized virtual anatomy table that allows you to dissect mammal species without physical cadavers. The Anatomage Table—considered one of the most technologically advanced, 3D virtual dissection tools for education—is just one of the many new features of Bethel’s science lab renovation. Thanks to a $1 million gift from a generous donor, the four biology and chemistry labs—originally built in 1972—on the first floor of the Barnes Academic Center have received a much-needed update and are ready for the more than 600 students who will take science labs this fall.

“These labs now match the high quality of our professors and their curricula,” says University Provost Robin Rylaarsdam. “So many of the courses taught in these spaces are foundational for advanced work in a wide variety of majors, so a large number of students will have their experience impacted by these renovations.”

The renovations, which began in May 2024, include everything from new floors, benches, and lighting to the latest video solutions and safety infrastructure. And they expand on an investment Bethel began making into its science departments four years ago with the building of the three-story, 18,000-square-foot Nelson-Larson Science Center, also with a gift from a generous donor and located within the BAC. The recent project’s budget allowed for upgrades not just limited to construction materials and labor. “Each department was allocated funds to improve the student learning experience in very specific ways—like the virtual anatomy table,” says Rylaarsdam.

For chemistry, the upgrades go beyond the standard equipment as well. “We’re being blessed by two additional fume hoods, a flow cytometer for biochemistry research, several UV-VIS spectrophotometers, an upgrade of our mass balances, and the purchase of a number of various laboratory sensors,” says Rollin King, chemistry department co-chair. 

The biological sciences and chemistry departments also hope the new space encourages collaboration. “One of the remodeled chemistry labs will be used as an instrument and research lab, which will allow both chemistry and biology students and professors to have more convenient access to instruments that are shared by the two departments,” says Amy Dykstra, professor and department chair of biological sciences.

The renovations are a boon for current students, but also attractive to those interested in science and considering Bethel in the future. “We are excited to occupy these new and improved labs, and to be able to show these beautiful spaces to prospective students and their parents,” says Dykstra. “These upgrades will help us recruit new students and prepare our current students for graduate school and/or their future careers.”

Brandon Winter, chemistry department co-chair, says he is grateful for the immediate benefits of this renovation—the updating of old and out-dated spaces—that now reflect current best practices in chemistry education. But the impact will be felt for years to come. “The ripple effects of this throughout all of our courses and programs are immeasurable,” he says. “I am deeply grateful for the way this donation demonstrates the value others place on a Bethel education and am humbled to be a part of it.” 

Bethel has a long legacy of quality education in the sciences. “Faculty, students, and alumni share the joy of scientific discovery together, while praising the Creator,” says King. “May God continue to stir the hearts of financial donors to sustain the great opportunity here for young people of today and tomorrow.”

Follow your calling—become a scientist

Interested in investigating and exploring the relationship between science and faith? Do cutting-edge research in state-of-the-art labs with award-winning professors at Bethel. Learn about God’s diverse creation and prepare to make a difference in your area of interest. Check out a wide variety of majors and minors in Bethel’s Biological Sciences and Chemistry Departments.

Biological Sciences       Chemistry