Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Medical Research Council, Cambridge
The new Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) Project is one of the most prestigious laboratory buildings in the United Kingdom. It will house the LMB, is a world leading research institute, within the Medical Research Council which was at the forefront of the revolution in molecular biology which occurred in the 1950-60s, since then it remains a major medical research laboratory with a much broader focus.
The new facility LMB has a distinguished history of discovery and invention over the last 50 years, with members of the Laboratory winning many prizes and awards for their work. Former students and others are now leaders in institutions all over the world. LMB’s future role will continue to be to do excellent science, alongside training scientists for research elsewhere and transferring new ideas into the creation of wealth and the improvements in the standard of life for everyone in the UK. The new building will help to ensure this happens.
The building design has a gross area of 27,000m2 and an estimated construction cost of £160m. The building will be 3 storeys high above ground level.
The plan form of the 3 storey building comprises of two linear wings arranged in a chromosome form with a central conditioned atrium. The building will be fully sealed and will rely on mechanical air conditioning to provide the appropriate level of fresh air and internal temperature control.
Horizontal services distribution shall be carried out on an interstitial deck on each floor. An external energy centre shall be provided containing chiller plant, boiler plant, water storage, HV/LV transformers and emergency generators. The energy centre shall be connected to the building by an underground tunnel.
KJ Tait Engineers have formed a joint design venture with the American firm of specialist lab designers, RMF, to undertake the commission. The architects are RMJM.
The £160m Project is due for completion in 2011.