POTSDAM, N.Y. — Clarkson University says it is seeking proposals for a concept design for the upcoming Clarkson Engineering and Applied Sciences Educational Complex.

The university, located in Potsdam, is asking architectural and engineering firms to team with construction managers and design builders to provide proposals. The effort seeks to expand and renovate its engineering and science facilities to “meet the challenge of 21st Century STEM education.” STEM is short for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

“This is an exciting moment for Clarkson,” David Heacock, acting president and trustee of Clarkson University, said in the school’s announcement. “This is an outstanding opportunity to chart a lasting legacy for one of the nation’s leading STEM focused institutions and reinforce Clarkson’s leadership for decades to come.”

For its Engineering and Science Educational Complex, Clarkson is envisioning a $48 million expansion and renovation of the Center for Advanced Materials Processing (CAMP)/Rowley Labs facility in conjunction with significant renovations to the Cora & Bayard Clarkson Science Center building.

Firms interested in submitting proposals can access the request for proposals (RFP) document online. Clarkson says it will use the site to post any addendums and any procurement updates related to the opportunity.

“We are asking firms to help us advance our own planning study to the point that a clear path is developed for the expansion and renovation of our facilities to ensure we can meet the needs for Clarkson’s STEM leadership now and well into the future,” Bill Jemison, dean of the Coulter School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, said in the announcement.

The request for proposals articulates that the intent is to enter into a multi-phase design contract. The first phase involves validating the internal planning efforts to date and developing a concept design that can “clearly articulate a vision” for a phased expansion and renovation of Clarkson’s core STEM facilities.

Final proposals from teams are due on March 20. The university building committee will review the written proposals, forming a shortlist of firms in which to conduct informal interviews. Clarkson anticipates selecting a firm/team in April.