Scientists and designers need to appreciate the differences each brings to the design process.

Fundamental to the process of laboratory facility planning is an understanding of some basic design principles that ensure future adaptability.

A dynamic shift in the way researchers conduct their work has had a profound effect on the design of their facilities. Emphasis has focused on three main components: establishing large open labs, the distribution of utilities to and within the lab, and the auxiliary spaces that both support the research experiments and promote collaborative dialogue between colleagues.

Pressure to improve laboratory efficiencies, reduce environmental impact and accommodate a myriad of advanced technologies is driving remarkable achievements in research facility design.

A $6.6 million gift of 200 acres in Bryan, Texas, has allowed the Texas A&M to begin designing a new health science center campus, including a biomedical research building.

Plans for the first phase of the new health science