California Construction News staff writer
Turner Construction, the University of California, Berkeley, the Innovative Genomics Institute and Bakar Labs have broken ground on a new research and innovation facility that aims to expand genomics research and support the growth of biotechnology startups in Berkeley.
The Innovative Genomics Institute–Bakar Labs building will provide laboratory, research and collaborative space for scientists and emerging life sciences companies. Project leaders say the facility will strengthen Berkeley’s Innovation Zone and reinforce the city’s role as a center for biotechnology and climate-focused research.
The event marks the culmination of years of planning and collaboration among UC Berkeley, the Innovative Genomics Institute, Bakar Labs, philanthropic supporters, architects Weiss/Manfredi and DGA, engineers, consultants and construction partners.
“This groundbreaking is a celebration of partnership,” Manu Garg, Turner’s project executive, said in a statement. “Projects of this significance are only possible when owners, designers, builders, researchers and community stakeholders come together around a common vision.
“We are honored to work alongside UC Berkeley, the Innovative Genomics Institute, Bakar Labs and the entire project team to help create a facility that will empower the next generation of scientific breakthroughs.”
When completed, the building will house advanced laboratory and research facilities for the Innovative Genomics Institute while expanding space for Bakar Labs’ network of biotechnology startups. The project is expected to increase capacity for CRISPR-based research and provide infrastructure for early-stage life sciences companies as they grow, allowing more startups to remain in Berkeley.
“This is a pivotal moment for genome engineering around the world, and the IGI and UC Berkeley are at the leading edge,” said Jennifer Doudna, founder of the Innovative Genomics Institute. “This new building is an exciting opportunity to grow the longtime partnership between the IGI and Bakar Labs, and to show the power of combining impact-driven research and entrepreneurship in one space.”
Project officials said the development is expected to boost Berkeley’s life sciences ecosystem by creating space where researchers, entrepreneurs and biotechnology companies can collaborate, attracting talent and investment while supporting long-term economic growth.
Construction is now underway. Turner Construction said the project reflects its commitment to building facilities that support scientific discovery, innovation and community development.
The Innovative Genomics Institute–Bakar Labs building is expected to serve as a hub for research and entrepreneurship focused on advancing technologies with applications in health, biotechnology and other scientific fields.
