The Pirbright Institute and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) have appointed architects NBBJ to design a new world class laboratory for The Pirbright Institute in Surrey, UK. The Pirbright Institute is a world-leading centre of excellence in research and surveillance of animal viral diseases and of viruses that spread from animals to humans.

The 4,000 sq m gateway building is part of a £100m investment by the UK government via BBSRC to fund a second phase of development at the Pirbright campus. It will target a BREEAM rating of Excellent. Ninety scientists will be brought together in this new building from different sites in a strategic co-location to encourage scientific interaction and collaboration across research programmes.

Rebecca Mortimore, NBBJ lead architect said: “The design must be sensitive to the rural location and will be key to supporting the scientific community on campus. We need to accommodate the stringent technical requirements of the scientists and build in flexibility to allow for change as research programmes evolve.” Subject to planning approval, start on site is expected towards the end of 2013 with completion at the end of 2014.