Thought leadership

<p dir="ltr">Scientists' work has transformed significantly in recent years due to:</p><ul><li>Rapid technological advances, leading to shorter equipment lifecycles and higher usage.</li><li>Increased collaboration across disciplines, industries, and sectors (academic, commercial, public, and non-profit).</li><li>Shifts in workforce expectations, as new generations bring fresh ideas and work habits.</li><li>Pressure on asset management budgets to maximise efficiency.</li></ul>
<p dir="ltr">These factors influence laboratory design. Being aware of these changes can help universities, research institutes, and pharmaceutical companies create high-performing facilities that support ground-breaking science.</p><h2>Technology advancements</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Laboratories today are high-tech spaces with a shift from traditional hands-on work to computer-based simulations and automated processes. Advanced equipment, high-resolution imaging, and fast data processing tools drive efficiency and speed up scientific progress.</p>
<p dir="ltr">With more complex equipment, labs increasingly rely on a common IT backbone to centrally control data, track usage, and monitor performance. A well-configured, connected setup boosts productivity and resource sharing.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Sharing equipment is also a key trend, requiring labs to be designed for multiple, concurrent projects instead of being restricted to a single purpose. This shift helps maximise utilisation, making facilities versatile and cost-effective. Additionally, accessing high-speed computing or other specialised services remotely through the cloud reduces the need to maintain costly in-house resources. However, strict regulations on clinical data handling require labs to prioritise data security and legal compliance. </p><h2><strong> Emphasis on collaboration</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Science programs at universities and research institutes increasingly emphasise collaboration and shorter project timelines. Whether it’s moving from research to patient care or from discovery to market, scientists face pressure to expedite their work. Although large-scale, long-term projects still exist, most labs focus on supporting cross-disciplinary, short-term activities.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Lab designs must facilitate quick project start-ups in adaptable, flexible spaces with high reliability. Standardising lab sizes and layouts, along with prioritising support services based on frequency of use, can help streamline workflows. Integrating work areas, labs now incorporate flexible social spaces for both individual and group work, blending quiet zones with collaborative areas. These are supported by fast, reliable IT, catering options, and concierge services.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To support global partnerships, labs also need robust IT infrastructure for seamless video conferencing and collaborative tools. Social areas, car-free campuses, and sustainable transport options can further enhance a collaborative culture, extending the lab’s environment beyond its walls.</p><h2> Workforce evolution</h2>
<p dir="ltr">As new professionals enter the workforce, they bring different expectations about work environments. Trends now favour inclusivity, flexibility, and open spaces that encourage interaction and team building.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This shift challenges traditional, hierarchical structures. Leaders who approve lab designs need to adapt to these new norms, recognizing that a modern work environment is key to attracting and retaining top talent. An engaging and well-designed workspace can significantly enhance motivation and productivity.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Modern lab designs now focus on the facility’s overall performance, rather than individual workspaces. Workers value streamlined services that support their roles, such as automated ordering and delivery of lab consumables. Some practices, like hygiene and biosafety standards, remain unchanged, so labs still separate work areas from spaces for eating or breaks. However, a greater range of high-quality catering options is increasingly expected.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Inclusivity is another important consideration. New facilities should reflect equality in design, from changing rooms to dining areas and restrooms, aligning with both organisational values and legal standards. Creating spaces that respect diversity benefits productivity across both public and private sectors.</p><h2><strong>Managing costs </strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Designing labs for scientific research is a significant investment, often more costly than hospitals due to complex systems and equipment needs. Operational costs add further financial pressure, especially due to air systems and equipment demands.</p>
<p dir="ltr">An efficient response begins with considering whether to repurpose existing facilities, which can save on initial costs. When building new, carefully defining functional needs and linking them to business goals can help manage expenses. Calculating long-term costs early on enables a balanced approach to budgeting, including investments in energy-saving technology. Standardisation of systems and reuse of design elements across a campus can also help reduce costs while ensuring predictable outcomes.<br /></p>

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To attract top talent, modern laboratories must be flexible, promote agile working, support connected networks, and emphasise sustainability.

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