Where, Matters

EXPLORING THE TOPIC OF PLACE AND PEOPLE

―IN RELATION TO THE SCIENCE SECTOR

WHERE, People in lab coats are still humans like you and I, they want to get good coffee MATTERS. next door.

Life & Science ― The Role of Place in the Life Science Talent Race Life & Science ― The Role of Place in the Science Talent Race

Where, Matters.

Dear Reader, I’m delighted that Perkins&Will is launching 'Where, Matters', our latest piece of thought leadership which seeks to explore the topic of place and people in relation to the science sector.

Across many of the cities that we work in, science is playing a key role in their future economic growth ambitions. Perkins&Will is seeing more capital being invested, more start-ups and spinouts emerging from academic institutions and more science-led developments being designed and developed. The growth of the sector is to be celebrated but it also leads to challenges as businesses compete for an increasingly limited supply of talent.

What has been described as a ‘science talent race’ will further emphasise the importance of place and quality environments as a deciding factor for top talent when they choose where to locate and whom to work for. For organisations that want to stay ahead in a global market, place must become a priority to attract and retain the best candidates.

Alongside the experiences of our in-house science experts, 'Where, Matters' draws on the combined wisdom of scientists, academics, developers, occupiers and institutions to present a place-based toolkit to guide future-facing science organisations towards becoming a place of choice for global talent. I’m enormously grateful to all of those who have taken the time to support us with this research. →

WHERE, MATTERS.

At Perkins&Will we talk about creating ‘places that honour humanity’ and to achieve this our focus is always to put people at the heart of everything we do. Whether designing a school for young children to learn in, an office to fuel collaboration or a laboratory for experimentation, our people-centred approach is underpinned by a deep understanding of those we are designing for.

For the science sector, the question of what constitutes a successful place is one that has evolved radically over the past decade. From out-of-town science parks to urban hotspots, the sector has undergone a rapid re-think of what a science building, district or campus should be.

As a global practice, Perkins&Will has worked on many of the projects that sit at the cutting edge of the science sector’s placebased evolution. From MIT's SoMa development in the heart of Kendall Square to Tribeca, London's largest purpose-built life science campus, we are delivering projects that demonstrate the art of the possible for a sector where people are prioritised as much as science.

We hope you enjoy this report and as always, we welcome your thoughts, suggestions and feedback as we seek to continue to play a role in curating an important dialogue around the future of place.

Jo Wright Principal, Managing Director Perkins & Will

Life & Science ― Place and People

01

― Overview

03 02

4 Where, Matters Life & Science

― Executive Summary

― The Challenge

04

― Place-Based Toolkit

05

06 ― Acknowledgements

― Key Takeaways

Life & Science Where, Matters 5

The ― Role of Place in the Science Talent Race.

As the race for the top talent in the science market continues to hotup, what role does place play in supporting organisations to attract and retain the best talent?

The science market is booming and the demand for top talent continues to soar. At the same time a severe shortage of candidates is creating major challenges for companies looking to expand and grow, placing candidates firmly in the driver’s seat. Employers are working harder than ever to attract top talent by reassessing their employer value propositions, offering higher salaries, better benefits packages, and more flexible working allowances.

However, a key part of the employer

package that is often overlooked is the role of place, which is becoming a key determining factor of where top talent chooses to work. The emergence of new models for science districts offer unprecedented choice, allowing occupants and employees to find the right fit for them.

This report shines a light on the growing

importance of place for the science sector and explores the factors that contribute to a great place for people and for science.

6 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 7

Executive Summary

Quality of Place.

Quality of Life.

“Scientists are creative people and they want to be in environments that inspire them” Daniel Parker, Perkins&Wil

The science sector is rapidly expanding, resulting in a

else, they seek liveable and stimulating environments that

significantly increased demand for skilled talent. With

support both life and career.

the integration of new digital technologies, including AI, companies are on the lookout for professionals with

report proposes a place-based toolkit that can help guide

additional specialised skills which limit the pool further.The

science developments, independent of their location and

post-COVID climate is adding complexity, as expectations

context, towards becoming a choice for global talent.

amongst professionals and in particular younger generations are shifting towards increased flexibility, greater work-life balance and working for employers who share the same value proposition and drive towards sustainability.

Science companies across the world are adopting new strategies to attract top talent, with a focus on brand identity, internal mobility, reskilling, flexibility and more, but the role of place is often overlooked. To remain competitive in the talent

8 Where, Matters Life & Science

To enter the place component into the equation, this

To get ahead, science employers should seek to: ― Integrate and connect to their local context ― Incorporate a complementary mix of uses ― Be dynamic and adaptable in layout and use ― Support the physical and mental wellbeing of staff ― Champion sustainable and healthy environments.

In the following sections, we set out the key challenges

acquisition race, companies need a stronger emphasis on

facing science companies seeking to attract top talent and

quality of place and quality of life – both at work and outside

expand on the place-based interventions that can provide a

of work. Because scientists are people too, and like everyone

competitive edge in the market.

Life & Science Where, Matters 9

The Challenge ― In the UK alone, there are 6,000 life science businesses competing for talent and it is anticipated that more than 31,000 jobs will need to be filled by 20253.

71% of companies are planning to grow their workforce in the coming months and the life science job market is forecast to grow by 7% by 20282.

71% The life science sector is competing for a limited pool of skilled talent¹ and a limited pipeline of new talent. This is in part due to the speed at which the sector is evolving – 71% of companies are planning to grow their workforce in the coming months and the life science job market is forecast to grow by 7% by 2028². In the UK alone, there are 6,000 life science businesses competing for talent and it is anticipated that more than 31,000 jobs will need to be filled by 2025³.

The science sector was directly involved in pandemicrelated efforts, and the ongoing race for new discoveries and innovation has bred a highly skilled workforce with specialised knowledge in fields such as data science, bioinformatics and genomics. Moreover, the advancements in digital technologies require new skills in AI, machine learning (ML), cloud computing, big data, mobile app development and cybersecurity⁴.

10 Where, Matters Life & Science

One opportunity for the science sector is to recruit

the UK’s ability to attract and retain talent from the EU,

from other industries, such as tech, to diversify the workforce

something that is seen as paramount to foster innovation

and inject the workplace with much needed digital skills.

and economic growth9.

Another opportunity is to upskill and retrain existing teams,

Another challenge that white collar industries are

which hinges on building a work culture where people choose

grappling with worldwide is the return to the workplace

to grow and stay long-term.

post-pandemic. Once granted, the greater degree of

One factor that contributes to the science talent

flexibility afforded during lockdown is something that many

shortage is a high voluntary turnover, which is projected at

are unwilling to forego, and a survey of young workers in

18.4%, reportedly due to feelings of disconnection in virtual

London showed that 76% think that a flexible working policy

working environments, accelerated digitisation, and shifting

is important when choosing an employer10. In a hybrid

values stemming from generational differences5, which

working reality, being a place of choice is paramount for any

demonstrates that talent retention is equally as important

workplace, and this comes down to providing the type of

as acquisition.

day-to-day experience that top talent is drawn to.

The science sector relies on global talent, so the ability to attract people from afar is critical. In the US, non-nationals make up approximately 25% of all science and tech workers, and around 50% of the doctorial-level life science workers6.

The UK bioindustry workforce is made up of 50-74% UK nationals with the remainder primarily from the EU and USA7.

The UK is facing its own particular hurdles following Brexit. Graduates provide a steady pipeline of talent into science, but escalating student fees post-Brexit has halved the number of EU first-year student enrolments to UK universities between 2020 and 2021 (from 66,680 to 31,000)8. Applications were particularly reduced for science, technology, engineering and mathematics courses, which has raised concerns about

Life & Science Where, Matters 11

CONTEX

T,

While company reputation and scientific excellence

A

ND

OR THE APPEAL OF THE W

H OW

KP

LA CE HINGES ON

LO

O I T A C

N

AND

PlaceBased Toolkit The toolkit at a glance: 1.

inspirational and sustainable workplaces that nurture innovation, creative exchange, happiness, and physical and

science and its surrounds.

2.

(shops, space for showcases, events, co-working, etc.) that

WE L

But our everyday experience is not limited to work, call home. As such, the appeal of the workplace hinges on location and context, how well it integrates with the life and

L

pulse of the area around it, and the ability for scientists to live

function as common platforms.

3.

a successful career.

Dynamic interiors: How lab design is evolving to accommodate a more agile and flexible workforce.

4. Health and wellbeing: How mental and physical wellbeing can be an integral part of a science

near work. The focus must therefore be on overall life/science balance, and the potential to thrive in life alongside

A convivial mix of uses: How science locations can be more extroverted with open-access ground floors

mental wellbeing. it also takes into account the life we live and the place we

Integrated and connected: How to improve the interaction and physical connectivity between

salary, career development and job security towards

IT

IN

for future-facing science organisations towards becoming a

development.

5.

Sustainable environments: The importance of healthy and sustainable science buildings that mirror the values of candidates.

place of choice for global talent.

TE

GR

E AT

SW

IT

H

T H E

In the talent acquisition race, the focus on people and experience has become a priority, with 86% of sciences and pharma leaders saying that their organisations are more focused on staff experience than previously.

ND PULS

E

12 Where, Matters Life & Science

THE

weighs heavily in the balance. Top talent today look beyond

This section presents a place-based toolkit as a guide

L I F EA

OF

are deciding factors for applicants, the appeal of place

C I T Y A RO

UND IT

86%

Life & Science Where, Matters 13

INTEGRATED & CONNECTED How to improve the interaction and physical connectivity between science and its surrounds.

14 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 15

LIVING CLOSE TO WORK GRANTS MORE LEISURE TIME, PEOPLE WILL FEEL BETTER AND BE MORE PRODUCTIVE 16 Where, Matters Life & Science

INTEGRATED & CONNECTED “Our focus is on building a vertical campus, and we design the building in such a way that we maximise collisions and opportunities for collaboration between people who work in that building.”

Marcus Fernhout, Kadans

Innovation thrives in vibrant environments where a

living room for meeting and exchange. Visually permeable

blend of synergistic uses coalesce to accelerate progress

frontages give insights into the world of science for passers-

and time to market. This context supports a dynamic

by, and help demystify the research and innovation that often

ecosystem of discovery where established companies and

happens behind closed doors.

organisations meet knowledge intense SMEs, start-ups,

With an increased porosity and generous public

academic institutions and an eclectic mix of city offerings.

spaces, people from all ages and backgrounds are welcomed

Fundamentally, science is a collaborative business. Success

in, fostering a sense of belonging that erodes harmful ‘us

breeds success and knowledge is shared, so the ability

and them’ feelings. Walkways and cycleways that connect to

to foster of a sense of scientific community is the most

the wider movement network of the area will reinforce this

powerful amenity.

positive sentiment, increase the flow of people, and cement

Science clusters that are more granular in composition can seamlessly stitch into this fertile blend and nurture a positive exchange between science community and the wider

the cluster as a place for everyone and an integral part of the neighbourhood.

New science developments that are conceived as

community; the city is injected with life and activity and the

mixed use and incorporate homes of different types and

science complex benefits from the urban diversity that is

tenure can enhance quality of life for employees, who can live

provided in return. The abundance of culture, commerce and

near work and gain valuable time back in their day for friends

leisure within close reach raises the appeal for scientists who

and family, hobbies and other life-affirming pursuits.

can enrich their workday with joyful and meaningful activities.

The sometimes polished and immaculate architecture

Through an integrated approach, the many components that contribute to talent experience and

of the science cluster can feel intimidating, yet by humanising

happiness can be woven into the offering, amplifying the

the scale of the buildings through setbacks and façade

appeal to professionals who are looking for more than

articulations, planting and signage, a more inviting

a prosperous career. Locations that are friendly, family

architecture is generated that can shift these perceptions. By

orientated, affordable, mixed, nature abundant and local

opening up the ground floor and lower levels through internal

will stay ahead in the competitive game. This is about life and

streets and publicly accessible lobbies and atriums, the public

liveability, which is an essential driver for top talent as they

realm can be extended into the cluster and act as an informal

choose where to live, and whom to work for.

Life & Science Where, Matters 17

work local play local

Interview with Gareth Roberts, Head of Development for Innovation and Life Sciences, British Land.

Q. Where is British Land active in the life science sector, and how do you decide which locations are relevant?

bit of density and a little bit more proximity we can limit

A.

school, whatever the benefits might be.

We have a campus at Regent's Place which is in

the King’s Cross knowledge quarter. We are also building

sprawl, and then you get that virtuous circle happening where being close to work grants more leisure time, people will feel better and be more productive, they can drop off their kids at

which adopts the current best practice of place, meaning

Q. Do you see a shift in the science sector towards providing more health and wellbeing facilities?

15-minutes cities, mixed and balanced communities, green

A.

a new town centre at Canada Water in South East London

transport, great levels of amenity, health and wellbeing and access to green space. We have just launched a modular labs building there, the Paper Yard, which gives us the opportunity to experiment with smaller spaces but also offer bespoke provision for larger entities, whether it's an educational institution or a large corporate. We also have other sites in our portfolio. For example, we are converting a Debenhams in Bath into lab-enabled spaces which will bring scientists into the urban area.

Q.

Is it challenging to do modular labs?

A.

We want to be bold enough to challenge some of

Scientists deserve top space, too. They face the same

challenges as other workers in the UK, and that is going back to the affordability of housing. When people feel less stressed in their work environment and have more access to green space, if they can be in more control of their workspace, we know that all these things satisfy both health and wellbeing and increase productivity and performance. So, we need to be more thoughtful about this. The science park developments that have happened over the last 30-40 years, car-based and suburban, are challenged when it comes to amenities as you don't have the density to support it. Cities are great at providing that viability, that density for all the amenity to

the traditional criteria, like high spec fit outs. It’s the right thing to do in terms of carbon, but it's also the right thing to do in finding viability, because if you can deliver what people need, rather than what they want, then you will avoid over specifying buildings.

happen naturally.

Q. Where do you look to learn from the science sector, and where is the future competition?

A.

The US has a super developed science ecosystem

and converts IP from universities to products, but it is less

Q. What Canada Water offers in addition is the opportunity for residential, which means that scientists can live in relatively close proximity to the labs.

concerned about the carbon agenda. If we look at a European

A.

a catalyst for change. How did they do that? We are always

The cost of housing relative to salaries is a real

example like Copenhagen, they have a strong carbon agenda but the science ecosystem is less developed there. We need both. Arizona State University has built great alignment between government, education, and industry, and acts as

challenge. Real estate needs to play its part alongside

trying to look at these things and learn from them, and

government policy to not hold back the potential for science in

understand what attracts companies to certain locations.

the UK. How can people afford to live close to their workplaces and get to work in a low carbon way? If we can allow a little

18 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 19

Case Study

MIT placed a great deal of importance on the art of placemaking to create ‘spaces for all’ and an authenticity important to maintaining Kendall Square’s identity.

20 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 21

Case Study

MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, SOMA SITE 3 LAB BUILDING CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS A recent addition to MIT’s ambitious South of Main Street (SoMa) Development in Kendall Square’s innovation hub, the laboratory and office building at Site 3 caters to a diverse range of tenants, from small startups to global pharmaceutical firms, fostering collaboration within the MIT community.

The building’s adaptable

connector, the design

labs and workspace can

maintains Kendall Square's

accommodate various

human scale.

programs and technical

Today, a range of

requirements. Hyper-flexible

science tenants from a world-

floor plates appeal to a wide

renowned pharmaceutical

range of tenants and ensure

firm to a midterm life science

future changes in building

company, and a dynamic

function, while ground-floor

incubator startup occupy the

retail adds vibrancy and

building in their own vertical

aligns with MIT's culture of

community of science. Each

innovation.

tenant’s space is uniquely

Set within the

designed by Perkins&Will to

sensitive context of

reflect tenants’ individual

Cambridge, the renovation

missions, science and

and adaptable reuse of

character. Together, they

this historic building on

reflect both the particular

Kendall Square continues to

and the whole, creating

reinforce the character of the

a community of scholars

neighbourhood. By retaining

that fits comfortably into

the existing 238 Main Street

the community of Kendall

Building and incorporating

Square, MIT, and Cambridge.

a five-storey glass atrium

22 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 23

Case Study

This laboratory and office building is designed to attract tenants from small incubator start-ups to global pharma clients.

A CONVIVIAL MIX OF USES How science locations can be more extroverted with open access ground floors that function as common platforms.

24 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 25

A CONVIVIAL MIX OF USES “Scientists and academics still need places to get a good coffee, get their shoes fixed, and a drink after work.”

Peter Langly-Smith, Reef Group

LIFE & SCIENCE CONNECTED

The contemporary science cluster assumes its place in its

Where space allows, meanwhile uses can provide

local area through clever organisation of internal spaces;

low risk yet impactful interventions that bring novelty and

extroverted and permeable on the lower levels, it can provide

excitement to the place. A programme of temporary and

privacy for occupants with intellectual property considerations

pop-up uses – food and drink, sport and play, leisure and

at upper levels. As such, it can blend with the surroundings

recreation – can energise the place and reinforce its character

whilst supporting the needs of its scientists.

and identity. Meanwhile uses can function as a test bed for

A mix of complementary uses create convenience and a more convivial workplace that injects moments of interest during the day. Restaurants, bars and cafés, retail, culture,

more permanent provision, and the surprise element can help to attract new occupiers, investment and top talent.

Whilst the ground floor can provide space for a host

leisure and community facilities extend the city fabric of active

of different extroverted uses, a mix of unifying spaces where

uses and create a buzz that spills out into streets and open

to convene can be dotted throughout the building to bring

spaces. This brings life to the science cluster after working

together professionals from different departments and

hours, into weekends and holidays and improves the natural

organisations. Food and drink outlets, break-out spaces,

surveillance and sense of safety.

roof terraces and gardens can function as informal meeting

A selection of flexible street level spaces with

grounds where bump opportunities and chance encounters

commercial uses during the day could double up as

generate creative sparks that can inspire a stronger culture of

community-facing facilities outside working hours. Studios,

exchange and collaboration within the science community.

co-working and event spaces could, with small modifications,

Spaces to step away from work are equally important.

function as classrooms, fitness/wellness studios and

The ability to take time out to restore and destress in a

workshops that engage a nuanced audience. A mix of

high achieving environment can increase productivity

uses and a broader spectrum of science-related uses will

when returning to the lab or desk. It also brings more joy to

also provide access to skilled and unskilled jobs for a more

the workplace, and emphasises the importance of social

diversified workforce.

interaction and contemplation as part of the creative process.

Developments should also provide affordable

Mixing and blending the science cluster offering brings

workspaces for start-ups, spin-offs, incubators, and

variety and interest to the workplace whilst providing a range

entrepreneurs as part of their s106 agreements, to bring new

of informal spaces that support a ‘work-from-anywhere’

groups of private science companies into the mix.

culture, which increases choice and comfort for the scientists and helps counter the temptation of remote options.

26 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 27

Interview with Peter Langly-Smith, Development Director, Reef Group

Q. What is the importance of place for the science sector?

Q. Is there a challenge around knowing what occupiers want in this market?

A.

A.

Place is massively important, the whole proposition

On the assumptions that the buildings are technically

strategy for Tribeca is ‘Life and Science, connected’. Tribeca

robust for the demands of the end user, and have adequate

is a million square foot mixed use life science campus, not

flexibility, then the demands of the end user remain in line

just a collection of science buildings that happen to be near

with the wider market. As such the priority is to ensure there

the amenity and connectivity of King's Cross. We are having

is world-class public realm, a vibrant mix of ground floor

conversations with large pharmaceutical and technology

uses, and an active environment through the day, night and

companies, and they are more interested in the quality of

weekend. Scientists and academics still need places to get

the place than anything else. The key questions for these

a good coffee, their shoes fixed and a drink after work! At

occupiers, and for us as owners of Tribeca is, does the talent

Tribeca we are also pushing the boundaries of what can be

want to be here, how do you get to and from Tribeca, what

achieved with regards to our net-zero carbon ambitions within

is my journey, and what can I enjoy when I get there. The mix

a mixed use life science campus, which is rightly now at the

of uses that Tribeca provides does create some technical

forefront of everyone’s expectations.

challenges, and we have worked hard with our design

Q. Is there an attractiveness around the of stickiness of tenants?

team to ensure that the ground floor uses don’t impact the quality of the laboratory and science spaces above, which must be highly functioning and fully flexible. We have

A.

never been more certain that without the amenity and the

buildings right for their technical requirements, and the place

‘place’, people will not want to be there, which will deter the

right to meet the expectations of those people, then you’ve

occupational demand.

got the ingredients for success. Within the sector it’s also

Q. So, you are applying good place making practices to the life science market?

important to be mindful of the benefits of these locations and

A.

As the sector matures we expect this proximity to play an

Yes, which is helped with our core business at Reef

Group being mixed use regeneration specialists, so we can

Occupiers will follow the talent, so if you get the

their proximity to academic institutions, medical campuses, research institutes and other knowledge economy occupiers. important part in distinguishing the very best places from the

apply our placemaking principles to science campuses such

competition in the market.

as Tribeca. The other aspect is that our partners typically all

Q. With the development of personalised drugs, will the relationship between the individual and the life science sector change and become more open?

have long-term patient capital, so we are designing these destinations and campuses to be built and retained. That longterm perspective informs the brief, knowing that we’ll still be letting these buildings after year five or ten and that we must

A.

keep pace with the competition. It’s about creating a legacy for

spaces to respond to the growing needs of the scientific and

the place and the sector.

medical sectors. If we can design in flexibility and deliver

Our job, as developers, is to deliver the physical

world-class buildings in the best locations, then we can be sure that the buildings can keep pace and respond to the changing needs of the end user. Personalised treatment will only further illustrate the importance of proximity to the medical and research campuses.

28 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 29

Q. Can you introduce yourself and your business.

Q. Where would you say London is on th e life scie nce jou rney and wh at's it g ot to do to catch u p with a mature locatio n like Boston ?

a gym and climbing wall downstairs. The wider amenities here at Regent’s Place are fantastic. It has a strong sense of

Relation Therapeutics is a drug discovery company

screen and tennis courts, free bike servicing and showers.

and seed stage startup with machine learning capabilities.

And the whole place looks so nice and inviting. I would like

We are multi-disciplinary and work with a range of

the Knowledge Quarter to meet the basic servicing needs

scientists – machine learning scientists, data scientists,

of the sector, such as waste removal, gas delivery, and

computational biologists. We are based at Regents Place

having our lab coats washed – it would be a game changer.

Euston Road where we have converted a commercial building into our HQ, and with that comes challenges but also huge opportunities. Being part of the Knowledge Quarter and close to other great organisations, hospitals and collaborators such as UCLH and LBIC is critical. Our central location and proximity to main stations helps with attracting talent.

Q. Do you agree that place is an important factor for science companies?

A.

Of course, people want to come to work and

feel really proud of the space where they work and the company they work for. You want to make sure that there are nice places close to work. We have lots of lunch places,

30 Where, Matters Life & Science

Q. What other requirements do you have to enable you to compete with Oxford and Cambridge?

A.

We were very intentional about our context and

chose this location and to build our HQ ourselves because we wanted to create that integration. We don’t want satellite offices because we want our team to have a common relational language when we talk about data and we want our wet and dry scientists to really integrate. If you have an office here and a lab there, the community feeling is not present. We knew that from a talent perspective, to be attractive, integration and location is important.

Interview with Rosie Rodriguez, SVP of Growth and Operations, Relation Therapeutics

community and they do a lot of social events. There is a big A.

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Life & Science Where, Matters 31

Case Study

TRIBECA London blends cuttingedge science with sophisticated city living. Under the lab coat, a life in colour.

“The proximity to organizations such as the Crick, AstraZeneca, GSK, MSD and Google Deep Mind makes King's Cross an incredible place for young and ambitious scientists and entrepreneurs to grow and advance their careers and start-up new companies” Rich Ferrie, CEO, London BioScience Innovation Centre (LBIC) and tenant within the Tribeca development

32 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 33

Case Study

TRIBECA, FINAL PHASE, KING'S CROSS, LONDON

TRIBECA, London’s largest

of other life sciences and

to grow and scale their

purpose-built life science

tech leaders. It also connects

operations year after year,

campus, is set to bring a

the neighbourhoods either

whilst established businesses

hub of science, activity, and

side of Regent’s Canal with a

and investors can reap the

community to the heart of

new pedestrian footbridge,

benefits of collaboration and

the Kings Cross Knowledge

enhancing connections

knowledge-sharing within a

Quarter. Spread across

between Kings Cross and

vibrant science community.

five architecturally striking

Camden Town and increasing

The final phase of the works

buildings overlooking the

footfall across the whole of

also includes a twelve-storey

canal, it offers approximately

the knowledge quarter.

residential building, which

one million sq ft of high-

will deliver both private and

quality workspace, cutting-

landscaped TRIBECA

edge laboratories, homes,

square – home to a bustling

shops and restaurants, as

restaurant-pub venue –

follows the delivery of The

well as its very own campus

double-height ground floor

Apex, the first laboratory

square, green spaces and

and mezzanine spaces invite

building on the TRIBECA

amenities, all blending the

the local community in, to

campus which has secured

industrial heritage of Kings

new shops, restaurants and

The London BioScience

Cross with future-proof

rooftop terraces. Above, The

Innovation Centre as its first

design and amenities.

Reflector, The Assembly and

tenant. The Apex will build

The Connector buildings

on LBIC’s existing provision

strategically at the nexus

will deliver state-of-the-art

to offer additional high-tech

of four bustling London

lab spaces, with facilities

lab facilities to its growing

districts—Camden, Kings

designed for life science

customer base, with the new

Cross, Euston, and Regents

businesses ranging from

facility set to strengthen

Park— the TRIBECA campus

discovery science through to

its value proposition and

is in proximity to The Francis

international pharmaceutical

attractiveness as a world-

Crick Institute, the British

companies. These flexible

leading destination for

Library, UCL, Kings College

layouts will enable smaller

bioscience research and

London, as well as hundreds

life science businesses

development.

Positioned

34 Where, Matters Life & Science

Looking onto the

affordable homes.

The final phase

Life & Science Where, Matters 35

Case Study

A landmark new quarter at the heart of London’s biotech knowledge cluster, where occupiers and residents collaborate, innovate and live in a waterside environment.

DYNAMIC INTERIORS How lab design is evolving to accommodate a more agile and flexible workforce.

36 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 37

DYNAMIC INTERIORS “There has been a generational change in the infrastructure that supports life science research, moving from standalone industry and academic R&D facilities to communities of open innovation, where researchers and entrepreneurs work within dynamic clusters of expertise that foster collaboration.”

Peter Ward, King's College London and Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust

Adaptable design solutions can extend the lifespan of

74% of employees say they feel happier when working

buildings through their ability to respond to the rapidly

remotely13. Today, many expect flexibility and remote working

evolving needs of the science sector without major

to be part of the job, however, 90% of companies prefer that

interventions. It also raises the sustainability credentials and

employees return to the workplace14.

appeal of developments for environmentally conscious young scientists.

To entice people back to the workplace, a dynamic blend of formal and informal spaces that suit different work

The capacity to expand, merge and collaborate

styles and preferences – traditional desk spaces, co-working

without relocating is a key value add for companies with

spaces, break-out spaces, courtyards, atrium, cafés and

growing ambitions. Flexible labs and workspaces with

outdoor spaces – can offer choice and an ability to move

modular interiors create a more agile working environment

around during the working day. The digital infrastructure

that can host a dynamic blend of occupiers and foster

should also be in place to enable remote working when

collaboration between different sectors. It is a known fact

possible. Laboratory work will inevitably take place onsite, but

that when the industry – from start-ups to global leaders –

people from other sectors, such as tech, will expect a greater

comes together with governmental institutions and academia,

degree of flexibility.

accelerated learning and innovation can amplify the reach

Collaboration and sense of community can be

and impact of science, which will help attract top talent.

reinforced in shared spaces that function as conduits, forums

Blending sciences with academia can also offer

where people can convene, converse and collaborate. Visual

essential re-skilling and up-skilling opportunities for team

transparency can help connect the different activities in a

members to allow organisations to plug skills gaps and evolve

building, which can be seen as a representation of ‘open

with advancements in technology and science . The possibility

science’ where researchers can view the ongoing work in other

for professionals to learn and grow within an organisation

departments.

12

grants a competitive advantage that underpins long-term retention. Furthermore, post-graduate placements enable companies to recruit from academia and secure a steady pipeline of talent.

38 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 39

Interview with Laurence Pearl, Head of Division of Structural Biology, Institute of Cancer Research and founder of Domainex

Q. What are your thoughts around the importance of place for the science sector?

A.

Back in the day and certainly the kind of buildings

Q. Have you seen a change in the behaviour and expectations of young people, in terms of what motivates them?

that we occupy at the University of Sussex and at the

A.

Institute of Cancer Research, the emphasis was on having

and a greater proportion are women. There's a greater

offices, spaces being quite compartmentalised. But with

concern about financial security and the future.

the development of much more interactive team science and computer-based science, a lot of thought has gone into the idea of more open and flexible structures. My ideal space these days for science is a very open plan, with visible laboratories. There are lots of challenges that comes with that and in life sciences some compartmentalisation is needed

I see more scientists now with partners and children

Q. What are your thoughts on science on display, showcasing what is going on in the building to the outside world to improve inclusivity?

A.

I quite like the idea that we're visible but some people

would be very nervous about that, depending on the nature

because there are safety issues. Junior staff would rarely

of the activities in the building. The Francis Crick Institute has

find themselves in private offices but rather in hot desking

tried to do that with these big publicly accessible spaces,

environments. The other big thing for me has always been

but the science is behind extremely high security and laser

social spaces where people can bump into each other and

scanners. I think people pay lip service to it but the minute you

have serendipitous conversations with people who you

start thinking about security implications everybody just sort

otherwise would not meet. Three Nobel prizes were cobbled

of pulls back from that quite quickly.

together in the café at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge.

Q. The social and wellbeing spaces are often forgotten about, but are becoming increasingly important now.

A.

In central London there will be postdocs coming from

all over the world, living in London, one of the great cities of the world. Fantastic. They don't mind the fact there isn't a squash court next door. But to attract talent to more remote locations, you have to provide much more amenities on the campus to create a draw. Scientists are people and they're often young people, and they want a life as well as a job.

40 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 41

Case Study

“Our thesis is that for a life sciences cluster to flourish, a location needs to have five things.

It needs world-class academic medical institutions, venture capital, and access to transportation. It needs to be an appealing place for people to work and play.

And last but certainly not least is the political will to get this done, and that’s what’s really changed in New York City over past five years or so.”

Edward Jaram, King Street Properties

42 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 43

Case Study

INNOLABS, LONG ISLAND CITY, NEW YORK Created 20+ years ago to serve the complex needs of science-based companies and institutions, Boston-based King Street Properties (KSP) has recently expanded into the New York market.

In partnership with NYC’s Economic Development Corporation, Edward Jaram and the KSP team worked with designers at Perkins&Will to creatively adapt and expand an existing building in Long Island City.

The result is Innolabs, a modern scientific workplace complete with collaboration areas, amenities, and state-of-the-art life sciences laboratory space that’s flexible enough to accommodate start-ups or longestablished companies.

With MEP services placed

theatre, or when divided

on roof level, and three

into two smaller rooms, as

vertical distribution cores,

a classroom or boardroom.

the allocation of space

With both the lobby and

throughout the building is

multipurpose teaching space

particularly flexible: tenants

combined, much larger scale

are able to add, remove,

events and lectures can be

or alter laboratory space

accommodated.

to other spaces or floors in

adaptable service

Brought to life by an impressive stitching together of three existing structures, the building has been designed for flexibility from the inside out.

the building.

infrastructure, the flexibility

with minimal disturbance

Ample collaborative

Combined with

provided throughout the

and educational space is

building means that Innolabs

also provided through a

can support a broad

large interactive lobby and

spectrum of businesses

adjacent multipurpose

from the science community

teaching space at ground

with diverse business needs

floor. When used in its

and activities.

entirety, the teaching space can be laid out as a lecture

44 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 45

Case Study

The Innolabs project has not only revitalised a building, but through thoughtful programming, flexible design, and adaptive re-use, it has contributed new energy and life to the street and neighborhood.

HEALTH & WELLBEING How mental and physical wellbeing can be an integral part of a science development.

46 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 47

HEALTH & WELLBEING “We shaped the campus around sustainability.

We are adjacent to a nature protection area and the science park is very green so people can stroll around during their lunch break.”

David Pitschmann, Lakeside Science & Technology Park, Austria.

Engaging in health and wellbeing activities during the

The meditation app developer Headspace has

working day can significantly improve cognitive function

designed their HQ to encourage regular movement and

and productivity, alongside the other known benefits such as

breaks during the workday; meditation pods and tech free

improved mental and physical health and better sleep .

silent spaces allow team members to take restorative breaks

Research has shown that 38% of Brits are more likely to apply for a job that has exercise benefits, rising to 53%

during the day which can reduce stress and frustration whilst boosting focus, energy and productivity .

amongst Gen Z, which indicates that onsite exercise facilities

In a man-made and technology saturated

could help life science clusters stay ahead in the talent race.

environment, spending time in nature allows the prefrontal

63% of respondents to the Randstad ‘2023 Life Sciences and

cortex to recover, which frees up our minds for creative

Pharma Talent Trends' report say that they are spending more

problem solving. It also provides stress relief, improves

on wellbeing and safety.

cognitive function, and inspires movement, all of which are

Health and wellbeing provision can take many forms – from play and sport to meditative and restorative spaces

excellent for our overall health.

The extracurricular activities that sport and wellbeing

– and personal preferences vary. The solution is therefore to

facilities accommodate add vibrancy, life and energy to

embrace an all-encompassing approach that includes fitness,

places. People from different departments and organisations

mental health, recreation, healthy food options and nature

can come together in leagues and groups that share a

spaces. Solutions can be simple and inexpensive yet impactful;

common interest, which helps break down barriers and build

flexible open plan spaces for gatherings, play and sport, lunch

community. Coupled with a selection of healthy food options

time running groups and mental health support teams can

onsite, employers can play a critical part to inspire healthy

bring huge benefits to the workplace.

lifestyles at home.

Studios for weight training, dance, yoga and Pilates could be combined with multi-use pitches if space allows, as well as walking, cycling and running groups.

Play can be informal and for all ages, inside or outside, meanwhile or permanent, and include both equipment and playable landscapes.

48 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 49

38% of Brits are more likely to apply for a job that has exercise benefits, rising to 53% amongst Gen Z

63% say that they are spending more on wellbeing and safety

Interview with David Pitschmann, Projects & International Cooperation, Lakeside Science & Technology Park in Austria Q. Could you give some background to your science parks?

Q. How successful is the science park at attracting talent?

It's difficult to measure. I developed a recruiting tool

A.

We manage two

talent had a tendency to move to bigger cities. This is still

work together – we have won lots of international awards for

happening, but less so because of COVID. A lot of people who

that. If we don't shape that interest in early life, we will not

moved away came back, not necessarily to work from the

be able to motivate the young generation in the region to go

science park, but from their house in a beautiful location by a

into science.

for tenants in the park where companies can advertise their

lake or in the mountains. Another amazing aspect is that you

science parks in Carinthia

vacancies. We also visit job fairs in tech oriented universities

can jump on the train and in two hours you’re by the sea, in

on the border with Slovenia

around Carinthia and nearby cities, such as Vienna, Liana in

three hours you’re in Venice or Vienna. You have mountains,

Q. What health and wellbeing initiatives have you introduced in the park?

and Italy – the Lakeside

Slovenia, Zagreb in Croatia, Udine in Italy, to raise awareness

sea, lakes, just to live.

Science and Technology Park

of the science park. We co-developed the University of

A.

in Klagenfurt and a high

Lanford, which is onsite, and this is one of the major factors of

tech campus in Villach. The

our success, that we are science park with a university. This is

Q. What are you doing to make the campus more attractive and interesting?

field, walking tracks, running clubs. A lot of people participate.

area is rural and because

a nice location for young people and university alumni who

of the beautiful landscape, a lot of people come here for

are just about to start their career, because the science park

A.

tourism and to live. International recruitment and talent is

has 70 companies, so you can grow and relocate within the

a global topic and for our region. We had a boom during

campus. We also have a tech oriented incubator to support

COVID when people could work from anywhere and we

startups companies that want to commercialise.

try to take advantage of that. Our focus is on co-working

Q. Are you challenged by the draw that urban locations have on young talent?

and cooperation, bringing innovative companies together with universities and other research institutes. Therefore,

A.

We also organise a company triathlon which encourages cooperation and working together, having fun. We have

We shaped the campus around sustainability. We

a fitness and health studio in the park. There is a focus on

are adjacent to a nature protection area and the science

healthy foods that we have developed together with our

park is very green so people can stroll around during their

caterer and restaurants, and during our sustainability day

lunch break. To reduce car dependency, we have a mobility

we serve food from the region.

hub with a regular bus service, rental bikes and scooters, and

Q. Do young talent play a role in shaping the campus?

storage for e-bikes. We have set up kindergartens to inspire curiosity about science from an early age. We wanted to have an international school with a STEM focus onsite but it was

A.

a massive challenge. Instead we invented an educational

companies are able to offer and what the science park can

lab, which is a huge laboratory for new forms of education,

culture, innovative companies and there is an international

fulfil. I don't know if this is a regional phenomenon or it's a

especially in the STEM fields and entrepreneurial fields where

airport. We used to have a lot of brain drain in Carinthia and

phenomenon of the next generation in general, but work life

kids can experiment in a playful way, be more hands on and

balance is number one.

innovation and the quality of life and work are quite high in

A.

our science parks.

close to 2 million people and there's a lot going on in terms of

50 Where, Matters Life & Science

There's a basketball area, a running area, a multi-use

Yes, definitely. Vienna is a great city to live in, it has

Yes. There is a difference between what the

Life & Science Where, Matters 51

Case Study

Oriel is designed to be a welcoming place for all.

The atrium at the heart of the building invites people in and forms a public living room for the city, comprising public facing activities such as art exhibitions, displays showcasing the work in the building, education facilities, café and other public facing activities.

Rafael Marks, Principal, Perkins&Will

52 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 53

Case Study

ORIEL, KING'S CROSS, LONDON Strategically located within the King’s Cross Knowledge Quarter, Oriel is a joint initiative between Moorfields Eye Hospital, UCL Institute of Opthalmology and Moorfields Eye Charity. Housed in a new 46,000m2 building in the heart of St Pancras, the project takes a radical approach to the integration of care, research and education, and aims to connect and collaborate with world-leading life sciences, health and other research institutions in the district.

“In the restaurants, cafes and bars around Granary Square there are scientists from the Crick and they enjoy these places as much as the people from Google and Sony Music.

Why have we treated science like a different sector and presumed for some reason that they don’t want access to all of this?”

Nick Searl, Managing Partner, Related Argent

Oriel’s architecture is

people’s sight, is undeniably

designed to create a calm,

brought to life.

welcoming atmosphere that supports healing and reduces

doesn’t stop at supporting

stress, with ample natural

the wellbeing of those within

light and integrated green

the building: it acts as a

spaces enhancing the staff

catalyst for urban renewal

and patient experience.

and helps strengthen the

At its heart, a daylit

sense of place for the

atrium houses public facilities

community of St Pancras.

such as café, retail and

Through opening up

conference facilities. Rising

connections across the

through it is the 'oriel', a

wider site and knowledge

stack of platforms containing

quarter, creating new public

public circulation and

realm, and welcoming staff,

breakout spaces bringing

patients, visitors, and local

users together to maximise

residents alike into the heart

serendipitous ‘water cooler’

of the building, Oriel has built

moments. Embracing the

a remarkable civic presence.

atrium are two boomerang-

Representing a

shaped wings that blend

holistic approach where

education, research, and

health, wellbeing, and

clinical departments

community engagement

vertically and horizontally,

are integrated, Oriel not

promoting cross-disciplinary

only enhances the quality

collaboration.

of Opthalmology care and

Through these

54 Where, Matters Life & Science

Oriel’s commitment

research in London, but also

design choices, the vision

sets a standard to inspire

of creating an environment

positive change across

for innovation to flourish,

the broader science and

and inspire improvements in

healthcare community.

Life & Science Where, Matters 55

Case Study

Oriel’s architecture is designed to create a calm, welcoming atmosphere that supports healing and reduces stress, with ample natural light and integrated green spaces enhancing the staff and patient experience.

SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTS The importance of healthy and sustainable science buildings that mirror the values of candidates.

56 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 57

SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTS “The environmental sustainability of a building has become a key factor for a life science company when they are considering different buildings.”

without the need to remanufacture - an excellent circular

Bill Harris, Perkins&Will.

possible. Creatively integrating historic buildings and

strategy to reduce environmental impacts.

The most sustainable building is that which already exists, and adaptive reuse should be embraced where structures adds meaning and character to places which

Sustainability is a key consideration for young workers

can enrich the working experience. It is important however

with 72% of science talent saying that a company’s values

that refurbished buildings can be sustainably repurposed

and purpose are important when choosing an employer19.

and operated.

Sustainability and ethics credentials truly matter, and

Healthy and sustainable buildings care about their

this shouldn’t be a box ticking exercise, but permeate the

occupants in many ways, and it is important for employers to

organisation on all levels. This includes demonstrating a

create the types of environments that talent feel drawn to.

commitment towards accelerating climate change action and

This includes buildings with healthy air, low toxicity interiors,

reducing global environmental impacts as well as delivering

biophilia, natural light and ventilation.

sustainable solutions in the workplace.

Certifications such as BREEAM and B Corp can

Onsite renewables and nature-based solutions can be implemented on the ground and upper levels of buildings,

demonstrate certain standards to increase credibility and

even in dense urban locations. Trees and soft planting provide

appeal. Science buildings with lab spaces will inevitably

microclimatic improvements through temperature regulation,

have a high energy consumption, which can be mitigated

noise/vibration buffering, airborne particle absorption, and

through smart building management systems and AI enabled

contribute towards mitigating the effect of climate change.

systems to minimise energy use and optimise space utilisation.

Sustainable urban drainage systems and green roofs can

Fabric first and Passivhaus developments with high thermal

provide rainwater harvesting, filtration and recycling, as well

performance and air tightness in combination with natural

as providing habitats for a range of urban species.

lighting and heating/cooling can further reduce operational

Urban greening is vital for the health of the city,

carbon. Other considerations to factor in are indirect

and it makes core areas more habitable. Increasing nature

emissions from supply chains, commuting, operational waste,

in cities has also been proven to reduce allergies, asthma,

purchased energy, etcetera.

cardiovascular disease stress and depression, as well as

Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and modular

improving cognitive ability. Green links and open spaces

systems can help reduce embodied carbon, cut costs and

encourage people-powered movement such as walking

speed up construction times. These building methods also

and cycling which helps reduce obesity and combat a range

promote adaptability. Some suppliers of modular systems

of diseases.

allow for components to be dismantled and reused or repaired, or they can be returned for use in other buildings

58 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 59

THE ENJOYMENT SIDE OF WHAT YOU WANT IN A BUILDING IS OFTEN FORGOTTEN IN A SCIENCE BUILDING BECAUSE OTHER PRIORITIES SEEM TO TAKE PRECEDENCE.

Interview with Peter Baird, Associate Principal, Perkins&Will.

Q. Organisations demonstrating that they are focused on sustainability is becoming increasingly important as they seek to attract and retain future talent. In the science sector it is challenging to deliver sustainable developments. What approaches are you seeing?

to draw the plan and then hand it to someone who is charged

activity. When we operate at a park wide scale we can start to

with delivering the operation, then you won’t get the same

think about how we create a place and how it can successfully

quality of result.

stitch together with the community around it, and then the

We are seeing some really interesting examples in US Universities around how to communicate the performance

project becomes a piece of urban renewal and regeneration which opens up lots of opportunities.

The projects with the biggest challenge are those

of a building on a daily basis, and letting students know how their behaviour impacts things like energy consumption.

operating at a building scale on a science park where you can

For example, display screens showing which dorms are

create a lovely building but unfortunately, it's not going to

avenues to get lab buildings to perform as well as possible

the most energy efficient and creating mini competitions

support all of the amenities that you need to offer, and if those

and within that there are lots of different facets. For example,

between dorms. That type of communication of a building's

amenities aren’t provided elsewhere on the park, then you do

ensuring buildings run on electricity as well as gas and looking

performance, socialising it, and helping people understand it

struggle to make it work.

at how we can use more sustainable materials and methods of

is something that will grow in prominence.

construction and the impact that has on vibration.

Q. From your experience how are you seeing science parks evolve and adapt to respond to the changing needs of talent, especially with the growing competition of urban science districts?

Q. How important is housing on the masterplans you develop?

Q. What role can introducing meanwhile provision play in helping to activate a science park?

A.

A.

A.

As a practice we are pushing on a number of research

As a sector we also need to have a better approach to the specification of the buildings so that they are adaptable but not universally flexible, therefore ensuring that you are not overly commissioning a building. The danger is the ‘spec race’

masterplan. For example, our client on a recent project in the

if you are not providing for your employees at that moment in time. Even if it's a pop-up, kiosk or food truck, you should

what is the experience for the people who work there, which

within the project boundary as they had their brief and budget

be looking at which businesses from the local area can come

is something that was missing from the science park narrative

fixed. The problem was that the people they were expecting to

in and provide a better experience for your employees. The

and research park narrative in the 70’s - 90’s, and in some

work on the campus would have to spend over an hour each

benefits of these things being mobile is that you can test and

cases is still propagated today.

morning in the car to travel only a few miles due to traffic

try it out with low cost and minimal risk

congestion. We knew that this simply wouldn’t work and the

Q. Are the days of big conference centres on a science park gone?

A.

to address that. of lab buildings improve. While I don’t think there is a zerocarbon lab building in the UK at the moment, I don’t think it will be long until we get there.

All of the projects that we work on have a focus on

In our office in the middle of London there are

Q. I presume part of the challenge from a sustainability point of view is how buildings are operated and user behaviour?

things in and around the building which make the daily

A.

As architects we can be accused of colouring outside

of the lines because we turn up to have a conversation about the physical design of a building and we end up having a conversation about the operational side and people find

It is super important, but you don’t need to wait for a

masterplan to tell you that you should have a meanwhile use

Middle East was adamant that there would be no housing

which is leading to the over speccing of buildings and we need Over time we can expect to see the performance

Where your employees live and how they move

around is a really important component of a successful

experience convenient and enjoyable. You put our experience

masterplan needed to address this.

The project has since been expanded and absorbed

in comparison with some of the buildings and locations that

into a wider city district masterplan which is providing 35,000

A.

scientists are expected to go and work from and you realise

new homes, and now gives us the ability to provide the right

with 5,000 people turning up for a handful of events during

just how disappointing their experience is. The enjoyment side

accommodation to attract the ecosystem that we need to

the year seems like it is probably an older and less relevant

of what you want in a building is often forgotten in a science

make this place work. We can also now start to think about

model. It is now more likely that you will see a smaller space

building because other priorities seem to take precedence.

how people can walk to work, which then enables us to have

which is designed to be a ‘pitch space’ for use by companies

the footfall to activate the ground floor experience and allows

to sell and present their ideas and get VC funding. It’s a space where someone you are trying to impress can sit down in plush

Usually we come in at the level of the strategic overall

The days of investing in a giant conference centre

it uncomfortable. The opportunity you have with an early

brief for the park, so we have the opportunity to understand

the retail to function. Suddenly, when you add housing other

stage concept, especially with a masterplan, is to incorporate

all of the current amenities and offers in and around the

things start working because of that, and this is a challenge

seats and you can tell them your story but it’s also a dynamic

those wider conversations around how this place will be

park, and we have the data to understand how places are

that some UK science parks also have where their site has been

and agile space where you can do Ted Talks, exhibitions, or

operated and programmed, and only when you stitch that in

performing and to understand where you need to connect

ring-fenced for science only.

community events.

will you get the results that you want. If you send someone off

things up or where you need to create routes or nodes of

60 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 61

Case Study

The new research centre consolidating University College London's place at the forefront of environmental research into infrastructure and cities.

62 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 63

Case Study

UCL PEARL, DAGENHAM, UK As UCL’s first net-zero carbon

The highly adaptable

Optimisation of energy usage

in-use building, PEARL (the

research and collaborative

through efficient services,

Person Environment Activity

workspaces serve as a

energy demand reduction,

Research Laboratory)

prototype for new post-

and up to 70% heat recovery

demonstrates the University’s

COVID ways of working.

facilitates lean operations

strategic commitment to lead

Rated BREEAM

for the building, while high-

by example and operate in a

Outstanding and EPC ‘A+’,

efficiency air-source heat

sustainable way.

the building has a highly

pumps provide clean heating

This new and

efficient building fabric and

infrastructure, and the

unique research facility for

services, and produces its

vast array of photovoltaics

the creation of full-sized

own energy, ensuring its

covering the roof provides

environments is testing how

carbon negative operation

green energy to power the

people use infrastructure

throughout the year.

entire UCL PEARL facility.

and cities, with the goal of improving urban design,

was guided by the Greater

for a more accessible and

London Authority (GLA)

sustainable future.

energy hierarchy, ' be lean,

64 Where, Matters Life & Science

The design strategy

be clean, be green'.

Life & Science Where, Matters 65

Ultimately, this highly collaborative project brings engineers, architects, biologists, social scientists, neurologists, artists and the public together on the journey of better understanding the relationship between people and urban surroundings, and is doing so in a sustainable environment that sets a precedent across the industry.

66 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 67

Key Takeaways Science is increasingly moving out of secluded campuses and into urban cores, where it forms an integral part of city life. As such, science clusters must adapt and develop new qualities that allow them to seamlessly stitch in and develop a mutually beneficial relationship with their surroundings.

This chimes with the needs and wants of a younger and diversified science workforce, who is placing a greater emphasis on work-life balance and flexibility. We also know that young people are becoming more discerning and that a company's values are of great importance when choosing an employer. A key deciding factor will revolve around experience. This goes beyond career, and touches upon life and liveability. Aspects that may seem entirely unrelated to science, but make up the essential components of everyday working life, will play a pivotal role.

Aside from attracting talent, the science sector also needs to consider talent retention by creating a work environment where people choose to stay and grow. As such, science locations must support all stages of life and career – from students to graduates to experienced professionals, single life, family life and later life.

Global top talent is faced with an abundance of choice, and the cities and places that can offer a convivial blend of life-affirming ingredients are those that will get ahead in the talent acquisition game.

68 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 69

This report identifies five place-based tools that can guide science clusters towards becoming a place of choice for top talent:

1. Integrated and Connected

2. A Convivial Mix of Uses

3. Dynamic Interiors

4. Health and Wellbeing

5. Sustainable Environments

Science clusters are disadvantaged

Extroverted ground floors with a mix

Buildings and interior layouts that

Healthy interiors and surroundings that

Sustainability is a key concern for

as standalone entities, and benefit

of publicly accessible uses will invite

can adapt with changing needs will

support physical and mental wellbeing

many young people, and companies

from being integrated parts of their

people in and erode feelings of ‘us

remain purposeful and highly functional

can significantly improve cognitive

that can demonstrate a commitment

surrounding context. Buildings, open

and them’. Lobbies and common

to the rapidly evolving life science

function and productivity. A varied

to sustainable and environmentally

spaces, walkways and cycleways that

spaces can function as public living

sector. Modular systems that can be

provision – from sports and movement

friendly practices will be more attractive

are designed to seamlessly blend in will

rooms whilst a greater degree of

reconfigured will increase lifespans

to meditative and restorative spaces –

on the global market. This should

be more inclusive and nurture synergies

visual permeability into labs can help

and enhance sustainability credentials.

will ensure that different needs are met.

extend beyond delivering sustainable

between urban users and activities.

demystify science to a wider audience.

Creative reuse of existing buildings can

Nature in all its form, from biophilia to

solutions in the workplace, such as

The eclectic mix of the city will be within

Blending occupiers and workspaces –

add interest and help anchor a new

vertical gardens and terraces, is proven

decarbonisation and renewables, to

reach for scientists, who can enrich their

industry, government and academic

development in the historic character

to reduce stress and increase problem-

also consider wider global impacts.

workday with joyful pursuits.

– will diversify the place and unlock

of the place.

solving capacity.

opportunities for cross-fertilisation that can accelerate innovation and support continuous learning.

70 Where, Matters Life & Science

Life & Science Where, Matters 71

Credits

Acknowledgements

Production team:

We would like to thank those that have taken the time to be interviewed for this report:

Cecilia Lindstrom Ellie Sharpe Jack Sallabank

Amanda Cherrington, London Borough of Sutton, Head of Economic Renewal and Regeneration

Josie Green

Charles Walford, Senior Development Director and Head of Life Sciences, Stanhope

Victoria White

Daniel Parker, Principal (Corporate and Commercial), Perkins&Will David Pitschmann, Projects & International Cooperation, Lakeside Science & Technology Park, Austria Fabio Morea, Head of Sustainability, Area Science Park in Trieste, Italy Gareth Roberts, Head of Development for Innovation and Life Sciences, British Land Jo Wright, Principal (Managing Director), Perkins&Will Laurence Pearl, Head of Structural Biology, Institute of Cancer Research and Founder of Domainex Marcus Fernhout, Director of Key Projects, Kadans Nick Searl, Managing Partner, Related Argent Peter Baird, Associate Principal (Urban Design), Perkins&Will Peter Langly-Smith, Development Director, Reef Group Peter Runacres, Head of Urban Futures, Earl’s Court Development Corporation Peter Ward, Director of Real Estate Development, King's College London and Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust Rich Ferrie, CEO, London BioScience Innovation Centre (LBIC) Rosie Rodriguez, SVP of Growth and Operations, Relation Therapeutics William Harris, Principal (Science and Technology), Perkins&Will

Bibliography

The following sources have been referenced in the compilation of this report: https://www.linnk.com/the-life-sciences-talent-shortage/ https://www.quanta-cs.com/blogs/2022-9/why-are-we-seeing-shortages-of-talent-in-the-life-sciences-i https://www.abpi.org.uk/partnerships/academic-collaboration/ 4 https://insights.randstadsourceright.com/randstad-sourceright-insights/ 4-talent-trends-life-sciences-companies-need-to-address-right-now 5 https://www.aon.com/industry-insights/life-sciences-talent-set-to-surge.aspx 6 https://wolfsdorf.com/the-life-sciences-talent-squeeze-and-foreign-born-workers/ 7 https://www.bioindustry.org/static/c934a2f7-3b95-41df-80eba0145fe644ec/BIA-submision-to-the-UKRISurvey-of-RD-Businesses-and-the-UK-Immigration-System.pdf 8 https://cepr.org/voxeu/columns/brexit-deterred-international-students-applying-uk-universities#:~ :text=Brexit%20significantly%20lowered%20applications%20from, ability%20to%20attract%20international%20talent 9 https://cepr.org/voxeu/columns/brexit-deterred-international-students-applying-uk-universities#:~ :text=Brexit%20significantly%20lowered%20applications%20from, ability%20to%20attract%20international%20talent 10 https://www.londonpropertyalliance.com/wp-content/uploads/ London-NextGen-Perspectives-report-2022.pdf 11 https://insights.randstadsourceright.com/randstad-sourceright-insights/ 4-talent-trends-life-sciences-companies-need-to-address-right-now 12 https://www.abpi.org.uk/media/blogs/2023/september/connecting-life-sciences-and-education/ 13 https://insights.randstadsourceright.com/randstad-sourceright-insights/ 4-talent-trends-life-sciences-companies-need-to-address-right-now 14 https://insights.randstadsourceright.com/randstad-sourceright-insights/ 4-talent-trends-life-sciences-companies-need-to-address-right-now 15 https://www.workthere.com/en-gb/news-guides/news/ over-half-of-young-workers-are-more-likely-to-apply-for-a-job-offering-exercise-benefits/ 16 https://www.workthere.com/en-gb/news-guides/news/ over-half-of-young-workers-are-more-likely-to-apply-for-a-job-offering-exercise-benefits/ 17 https://insights.randstadsourceright.com/randstad-sourceright-insights/ 4-talent-trends-life-sciences-companies-need-to-address-right-now 18 https://www.headspace.com/meditation/work-meditation#:~:text=Meditating%20at%20work%20can% 20reduce,schedule%20meditation%20into%20our%20calendars!

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