The mission of the Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative
Genomics is to conduct pioneering research into fundamental questions of
biology by integrating perspectives and analytical tools of molecular biology,
chemistry, physics and computer analysis. To help achieve these goals, the Carl
Icahn Laboratory, among the first fully integrated labs in America, was
designed to unite researchers from a variety of disciplines and encourage a
free exchange of thoughts and findings.Situated between the science complex of brick-clad
buildings within the historical campus of traditional stone, the building
bridges both contexts with its skin of pre-cast concrete panels which have the
proportion and color of brick and a texture that mimics the richness of stone.
In plan, it is composed of a curved glass façade positioned on the south edge
of the site and two rectangular lab blocks on the north and east. Beyond the specific program needs of individual
labs, the design was determined by the need for flexibility over time as
research and researchers change with the pace of genomic science.The space between the lab volumes and the curved boundary
of the "quad" is spanned by a steel truss roof that shelters an open
communal area known as the Atrium.
This space is enclosed by a glass curtain wall with vertical louvers
that track the movement of the sun in the southern sky. Their synchronized
rotation throughout the day keeps them at the optimal angle for shading the
interior, while also limiting thermal loading on the cooling systems.The functional arrangement, flexible spaces, ample
provision of natural light and distinctive safety features help promote the
initiative of the Institute and inspire scientific inquiry. As one molecular biologist was quoted
in a newspaper article in 2004, “The lightness of the space is rather
invigorating. It’s a place where you should have great thoughts.”
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