Construction has begun on two new buildings on the University of Arizona, Tucson campus: the Institute for Biomedical Science and Biotechnology (IBSB) and the Medical Research Building (MRB). Designed by Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Partnership, both facilities are comprised of four levels of highly flexible research, office, and support spaces with a connection to a below-ground vivarium. A physical link, inside and out, will facilitate collaboration among multidisciplined sciences. The buildings will frame a central courtyard envisioned as the social heart of the new research community. Office areas are proximate to the laboratories and organized into research neighborhoods, each composed of 24 open-plan workstations and three enclosed offices, with four neighborhoods on each of the research floors.
The 168,000-sf Institute for Biomedical Science and Biotechnology will promote interdisciplinary research into molecular life sciences. Housing 30 faculty scientists and 300 research staff, the IBSB will promote economic development through research interaction and workforce training initiatives with bio companies. Zimmer Gunsul Frasca is working in conjunction with local architect John R. Kulseth Associates. The IBSB will cost an estimated $65.7 million and is scheduled for completion in December 2005. The contractor is Gilbane Building Company.
The Medical Research Building will bring together basic scientists and physician-scientists at the University’s College of Medicine to advance the understanding of the molecular basis for human health, aging, and disease. The 136,000-sf building will provide space for pioneering biomedical research bridging many disciplines. The estimated cost for the MRB is $54.3 million, with completion scheduled for January 2006. The contractor is Hensel Phelps Construction Company.
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ZGF Architects LLP
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