MEDIA RELEASE
Preparations for construction on a new science building at the University of Toronto Scarborough officially began today in a groundbreaking ceremony held at the campus. The new building will provide dynamic collaborative space for interdisciplinary teaching and research in physical, environmental and life sciences.
Scheduled to open in spring 2008, this advanced facility is the sixth new academic building to be added to the campus in four years.
“The new science building will allow colleagues at U of T Scarborough to take a leadership position in some exciting interdisciplinary fields,” says U of T president David Naylor. “Most importantly, it provides students at UTSC with a phenomenal environment where they can do top-flight research. It is a place where some of our great minds can not only work together on problems that matter to Canadians, but also nurture the great minds of tomorrow.”
Designed by Moriyama & Teshima Architects, in association with Watson MacEwen Architects, the science building will extend from the existing science wing and have a view over the Highland Creek Ravine. It will house 16 laboratories and associated support areas; offices for faculty as well as work space for research assistants, post-doctoral fellows and graduate students; meeting rooms; lounges and a 250-seat lecture theatre.
“The science research that takes place at U of T Scarborough is at the leading edge of theoretical and practical innovation,” says Kwong-loi Shun, vice-president and principal at U of T Scarborough. “Our research on global issues such as world hunger, climate change, stress and species extinction enhances not only our understanding of ourselves, but also our planet at large. The new science building is one of many ways we are facilitating leading research at this campus.”
The design will include floor-specific themes, including environmental chemistry, plant and microbial molecular biology and other life sciences. Each floor will foster a highly-integrated approach to research and shared common space will enhance opportunities for academic and social discourse between researchers.
“We are excited and overjoyed to see this investment in the bright scientific minds of tomorrow,” says Norman Lee, president of the Graduate Students’ Association at Scarborough (GSAS). “The new facility will offer great opportunities for collaboration among disciplines, faculty, undergraduate and graduate students."
Established in 1964, U of T Scarborough is one of three campuses of the University of Toronto. Leading research, outstanding faculty and vibrant student life define the campus community. Scarborough offers undergraduate programs and graduate research opportunities in all major areas, interdisciplinary and co-op learning, the University of Toronto’s only bachelor of business administration degree, joint programs with Centennial College and a new master’s degree in environmental science. More than ever, students and faculty from around the world are choosing the U of T Scarborough experience.
CONTACT:
Nicolle Wahl
U of T Public Affairs
416-978-6974
nicolle.wahl@utoronto.ca
Melissa Joseph
U of T Scarborough
416-287-7089
joseph@utsc.utoronto.ca