Reconfigurable space for control-systems research

The Cybercore Integration Center focuses on bringing together Idaho National Laboratory's diverse portfolio of research that is increasing the resiliency of the computer control systems operating the nation's critical infrastructures. The 80,000-square-foot building represents the future of control systems cybersecurity, which has evolved over the past 20 years from reacting to threats to engineering new systems for resiliency to cope with and adapt to modern cyberattacks.

Key research focus areas and capabilities for the facility include Control System Cybersecurity, Cyber Analysis and Forensics, Cyber Informed Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, and Wireless Security Research. These capabilities are supported by a series of functional spaces within the facility that include 21 flexible electronics research laboratories; eight flexible and modular office suites; a large conference and training room; a large, flexible demonstration laboratory space; and reconfigurable, collaborative workspaces. At full capacity, the facility is designed to support 220 professionals working together in a collaborative environment.

Flad's design provides adaptable lab spaces – reconfigurable, flexible, modular electronics labs that can each individually serve a self-contained research project – with surrounding offices that support those research activities. Each lab module's standalone utility supply and acoustical treatment allows it to operate independently from adjacent labs, an important aspect in a building devoted to the work of clients ranging from state, federal, municipal, and private entities. The exterior builds on the connection to adjacent structures, with a sleek, modern appearance that utilizes glass where permissible, particularly at the main entry, where there are connections to the adjacent Energy Innovation Laboratory (EIL) and University Boulevard (UB) buildings that are currently occupied by INL researchers.

Construction funding by the Idaho Legislature and construction oversight provided by the State Board of Education both demonstrate how close the connection is between INL and Idaho's three research universities and other educational institutions. The Cybercore Integration Center is viewed by the educational community as an asset where faculty or students will have opportunities to work and perform research – representing a forward-thinking partnership that will pay dividends for Idaho residents, students, and the laboratory far into the future.