SFSU receives cutting-edge Agilent technology for new Science and Engineering Innovation Center

The gift provides world-class instrumentation to foster the next generation of STEM innovators 

SAN FRANCISCO – January 21, 2025 – San Francisco State University (SFSU) has announced that Agilent Technologies, a global leader in analytical and clinical laboratory technologies, has donated $1.7 million worth of analytical instrumentation for its new Science and Engineering Innovation Center (SEIC).

“Agilent’s generosity is not only an investment in our students and their success but also the greater workforce. By providing state-of-the-art equipment, students now have access to the next generation of tools for scientific discovery in the fields of chemistry, materials science, biochemistry and the life sciences.” said SFSU Dean of the College of Science & Engineering Carmen Domingo. “Agilent’s new equipment allows students to greatly expand and sharpen their skills ensuring that they are well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue higher degrees with confidence. We are grateful for Agilent’s support in this endeavor.” 

The donation will equip SEIC chemistry and biochemistry labs with Agilent technologies, enabling students to learn with world-class instrumentation and excel in our global society. In recognition of the donation, SEIC suite 201 has been named the ‘Agilent Technologies Teaching Laboratory.’ The suite is equipped with the highest number of Agilent instruments in the SEIC and is primarily used for upper-division chemistry and biochemistry courses. 

The new equipment is already making a tremendous impact on students like Marcello Garbo, a senior majoring in Chemistry. Garbo says before the donation, there was a limited amount of equipment that had to be shared among students and faculty. The equipment was also spread across different rooms. With more equipment that is placed in a centralized area, it speeds up the process for various tasks. 

“Every five to 10 minutes, I’d have four samples that I’d have to run at the same time. And then I’d also have to go all the way down the hall in order to run them,” Garbo said while describing his experience before the new Agilent equipment. 

Garbo also says the technology has been able to capture higher quality data, which has led to better scientific conclusions and more presentable information. 

"Agilent is committed to fostering innovation and excellence in STEM education, and our donation to SFSU is an example of that,” said Padraig McDonnell, Agilent president and CEO.  “By equipping the chemistry and biochemistry labs, we aim to empower students from all backgrounds to excel in their studies and future careers.” 

The new equipment will also strengthen the way faculty teach and conduct research. 

“This technology will significantly enhance faculty’s ability to deliver hands-on, real-world learning experiences that’ll prepare our students for fulfilling careers in STEM,” said Bruce Manning, SFSU Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. “It will also open new doors for faculty research, enabling us to pursue more advanced projects and collaborations.”  
The College of Science & Engineering has steadily grown, and this new 125,000-square-foot science building will help sustain this expansion and support the University’s role as a leader in fueling the workforce of the Bay Area. It will be prominently visible on 19th Avenue and is anticipated to benefit more than 7,000 CoSE students annually. 

Learn more about the Science and Engineering Innovation Center. 

###   

About San Francisco State University  

San Francisco State University is a public university serving students from the San Francisco Bay Area, across California and around the world, with nationally acclaimed programs that span a broad range of disciplines. More than 22,000 students enroll at the University each year, and its approximately 294,000 graduates have contributed to the economic, cultural and civic fabric of San Francisco and beyond. Through them — and more than 1,800 world-class faculty members — SF State proudly embraces its legacy of academic excellence, community engagement and commitment to social justice. For more information, visit sfsu.edu. 
 
About Agilent Technologies  
Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is a global leader in analytical and clinical laboratory technologies, delivering insights and innovation that help our customers bring great science to life. Agilent’s full range of solutions includes instruments, software, services, and expertise that provide trusted answers to our customers' most challenging questions. The company generated revenue of $6.51 billion in fiscal year 2024 and employs approximately 18,000 people worldwide. Information about Agilent is available at www.agilent.com.