Science

“The biggest challenge for our science clients is how to respond to the future. So we’re always challenging our thinking – not throwing out what we’ve learned, but using it to create the best new next-generation laboratory in the world. We don’t just look at the functional and technical aspects, but also the quality of the spaces to inspire science”

Leslie Gartner
Global Science Network Lead, WSP

We design and deliver science facilities that support the pursuit of progress, and can adapt to wherever the future takes you

Facilities for scientific discovery are among the most complex of buildings, but they should never be difficult to use or enjoy. Behind the scenes, the planning will be meticulous and the servicing intensive – but all the occupants need to see is a perfectly functioning, safe, comfortable workspace that can flex to accommodate whatever it takes to make the next leap.

For many years, WSP has planned, designed and delivered laboratories and research facilities for institutions, government clients and the private sector. With a 250+ experts encompassing lab planning, detailed design and operational certification, we bring both breadth and depth of expertise, as well as international best practice and insight. We are proud to have worked on some of the world’s most innovative and critical science buildings, and cherish client relationships that go back decades

A great science building demands a holistic, integrated approach to planning and design.

There is no such thing as a generic laboratory, so we don’t offer a generic service. Our specialist teams work with you to determine your requirements, now and in the future, and then collaborate to create customised, adaptable solutions, for single or multi-tenanted spaces. We can guide you through the process or take full responsibility for delivering a compliant, future-ready building.

Our projects meet the highest containment, biosafety and biosecurity standards, and the most stringent technical requirements, but every one is unique. We are constantly striving for improvements in performance, efficiency and connectivity, and to create spaces that not only facilitate discovery, but help clients to attract and retain the best talent. We know that there’s no room for complacency in science – our clients never rest on their laurels, so neither do we.

We pride ourselves on collaboration because we know complex projects with complex teams requires a collective approach.

Our expertise ranges from lab planning, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and low voltage engineering through to project management and sustainability. Well-practiced at partnering and collaborating with both businesses and institutions we ensure a complete understanding of the processes and protocols required at any stage of your project.

Case studies

Giant Magellan Telescope

One of the largest telescopes in the world will allow us to see further than ever before

The Giant Magellan Telescope in Chile’s Atacama Desert promises to revolutionize the way we see the universe. Offering images with a resolution ten times greater than those captured by the Hubble Space Telescope orbiting the Earth, it could offer fresh insights into areas such as dark matter, galaxy formation, perhaps discover life on distant exoplanets.

European Spallation Source

ESS will be the world’s brightest neutron source – paving the way for scientific breakthroughs within materials research

The European Spallation Source (ESS) is a new research infrastructure based on the world’s most powerful neutron source, which will enable scientists to gain vital insights into the atomic structure of materials. WSP was involved in the engineering design of the buildings and support systems for the research centre, which includes industrial and laboratory buildings and office space to accommodate up to 3,000 visiting researchers each year.

Marcus Nanotechnology Building

Georgia Tech’s world-leading nanotech facility is underpinned by flexible, collaborative spaces and light-filled labs

The Marcus Nanotechnology Building is a 190,000sq ft research complex on the Atlanta campus of the Georgia Institute of Technology. WSP developed the masterplan and design for three levels of laboratories – nano-bio devices, nano-physical devices and nano-materials – as well as an imaging and characterization suite.

Meet our experts:

We collaborate on highly complex, technologically advanced and functionally crucial science facilities by providing design, advice and management that enables innovative, resilient, efficient, safe and secure buildings. Contact an expert in your region to find out more.