News & Insights
VIDEO: Sustainability in research facilities
Why this matters now
Research facilities are among the most energy-intensive buildings owners run. High air change rates, fume hood loads, and around-the-clock operation drive utility costs and emissions far above typical commercial spaces. Universities, pharma, biotech, and government clients are all under pressure to cut emissions without compromising the science. Funders, accreditation bodies, and recruiting markets are paying attention.
What leaders are weighing
Facility leaders are weighing aggressive energy reductions against the operational and safety constraints of lab environments. Lower air-change rates, variable-volume fume hoods, and heat recovery can save substantial energy, but each requires careful engineering and the confidence of researchers. Leaders are also deciding how to handle plug loads, ultra-low-temperature freezers, and equipment that quietly drive consumption. Capital teams want strong paybacks. EHS teams want defensible safety cases. Researchers want consistency in their environments. The right approach respects all three.
How Salas O’Brien is helping clients respond
Our science and technology team helps research clients reduce energy and carbon while protecting the integrity of the work inside. We bring lab planning, mechanical and controls engineering, commissioning, and sustainability advisory together so clients can make decisions with confidence. We help leaders prioritize ventilation strategies, central plant upgrades, and operational changes that often deliver more than expected. Hear Bill Smith, LeAnn White, Maria Kordjamshidi, Adam Spach, and Darren
Bill Smith, PE, LEED AP
Bill Smith has been working in the engineering field for over 35 years. He’s a problem solver by nature and loves finding a solution to a difficult challenge. He works with high-performance campuses and research facilities and helps lead a team of consulting engineers who share his passion. Bill earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University, and currently lives in Raleigh with his family. Bill is a Principal with Salas O’Brien. Contact him at [email protected]
LeAnn White, PE, LEED AP
LeAnn White is a distinguished Principal Mechanical Engineer with a Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University. LeAnn has dedicated over 35 years to the consulting engineering field. Since beginning her career straight from college, she has excelled in producing large-scale technical designs for a diverse portfolio of projects. LeAnn serves as a Principal with Salas O’Brien. Contact her at [email protected]
Maria Kordjamshidi, Ph.D, LEED AP, Fitwel Ambassador
Maria Kordjamshidi is an accomplished sustainability consultant and registered architect, specializing in sustainable development and energy-efficient building design. With a proven track record in Canada’s architecture industry, Maria has worked on a wide range of projects, integrating innovative strategies for reducing carbon emissions and enhancing building performance. Her work spans both academia and industry, where she remains deeply committed to advancing sustainable development through cutting-edge research and practical application. Maria serves as a Sustainability Project Manager at Salas O’Brien. Contact her at [email protected].
Darren Draper, PE, CxA
Darren Draper has served as a lead commissioning agent on a wide range of building projects including university buildings, research laboratories, healthcare facilities, data centers, corporate headquarters, and multiuse facilities. Darren performs commissioning and retro-commissioning for HVAC, DDC controls, electrical, and plumbing systems. He is one of three instructors for the ACG Commissioning Authority Certification preparation workshop and has taught more than 20 workshops. Darren serves as a Principal for Salas O’Brien. Contact him at [email protected]
Adam Spach, PE, LEED AP
Adam Spach brings over 20 years of consulting engineering experience across research, higher education, and life sciences, with a focus on energy cost effectiveness. Based in Raleigh, he leads Salas O’Brien’s Life Science engineering practice and is a recognized voice for sustainable design across the industry. Adam serves as a Principal at Salas O’Brien. Contact him at [email protected].