Venue & Accommodations
November 3-4, 2025 | Rice University | Houston, TX
Workshop Location
Ralph S. O'Connor Building for Engineering Science, 5th Floor Conference Space
A landmark new research facility, the university hopes will attract and retain talented faculty and graduate students with its customizable, cutting-edge labs and amenities.
At 250,000 square feet, the O’Connor building is the largest research facility in the university’s historic core campus (second largest overall). The building design maximizes laboratory space and promotes interdisciplinary research and innovation through open, inviting collaboration spaces. The common areas feature a lobby and a café, and the top level boasts a multi-purpose event space and outdoor terrace with an iconic view of Rice campus and the city beyond.
Getting to Houston
The workshop will take place at Rice University in Houston, Texas, which is conveniently served by two major airports: William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), located about 20 miles south with a 20-40 minute drive, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), approximately 30 miles north with a typical 30-50 minute drive.
Both airports offer taxis, ride shares, and rental car options, making it easy to get to the Ralph S. O'Connor Building for Engineering and Science and accommodations in the area.
Accommodations
Conference Hotel:
Hilton Houston Plaza/Medical Center - about 15-20 min walk (1 mile or less).
The contracted rate is $129/night plus applicable taxes. Booking Link
You can also book by contacting the Hotel’s central reservations department at 1-800-774-1500 or by calling the Hotel at 713-313-4000. Attendees should identify themselves by the Group code: RRAM5 and or the Event Name to receive the group room rate.
Alternate Accommodations:
- Hotel ZaZa Museum District - about a 10-15-minute walk (about 0.75 miles).
- Houston Marriott Medical Center/Museum District - about 15-20 min walk (1 mile or less).
- The Westin Houston Medical Center/Museum District - about 15-20 min walk (1 mile).
- InterContinental Houston - about a 20-25 min walk (1.25 miles).
- DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Medical Center Hotel & Suites - about 20-25 min walk (1.25 mile).
If you need assistance with transportation between the hotel and the workshop, please reach out to Jessica Campbell (jc355@rice.edu) or Theresa Cisneros (tac6@rice.edu), and we’ll be happy to help.