Research Labs at MaRS South Tower

The Challenge:

We were hired to design four floors at MaRS South Tower for the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR).

OICR initially occupied the 5th floor, where NXL designed nearly15,000 sf of fit-out of offices and research laboratories for OICR’s work in genomics, bio-informatics, and cell-based research. The laboratories and offices accommodate up to 6 Principal Investigators, 20 researchers, and 10 programmers.

Near the completion of the 5th floor fit-out, OICR, in association with Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), took over an additional three floors (6,7,8) at MaRS South Tower and required the renovation of the existing laboratory and office area. The facility makes extensive use of robotics for automatic liquid handling, and adjustable gauges for compressed air to alter the movement and pressure of the robots, allowing the same equipment to serve different functions.

Achieving a Successful Outcome:

NXL had designed these floors previously for NPS Pharma, the original tenant, and was uniquely positioned to repurpose them quickly for OICR.

• Worked with OICR and SGC to programme the area, then provided full design and contract administration services for the 40,000 sf fit-out. The facility includes an extensive data centre, laboratories, and office space.
• The quality of these labs has allowed OICR to recruit significant research talent to lead the important work of Cancer research, including Dr. Tom Hudson, an internationally recognized Genome Researcher, and clinician.
• Dr. Hudson’s goal is to use the power of the OICR’s programs to help scientists and their industry partners discover, test and market discoveries. Over the next two years, he will recruit 50 principal investigators from around the world to work for the Institute. OICR will continue to support other research and facilitate collaboration between industry and academia.