Rice’s Research Support Shop, better known as the Machine Shop, has a full-time team of highly skilled technicians who create precision tools and machines that help Rice scientists complete their research and experiments. Dwight Dear, Senior Department Administrator, is joined by his staff, veteran scientific instrument makers Jack Gless and Eliberto Batres.

The Research Support team provides services ranging from simply drilling a hole to creating complex scientific instruments.  Almost every job completed is one-of-a-kind, created to serve a unique purpose in a specific lab for a particular piece of research.

The shop offers an annual six-week class for graduate students seeking an
introduction to the shop’s services and products. In the 36 hour course, students
learn basic machine shop tool skills and how to make simple machine parts
for their experiments.

The facility is located in the Space Science building basement, room 106. Hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30 am-5 pm. Email Dwight Dear at ddear@rice.edu or call 713.348.4051.

   Pictured from left to right are Dwight Dear,
   Eliberto Batres and Jack Gless.