New Space for New Ideas

Major moves and renovations are underway within the Cooke-Hochstetter complex on the North Campus as part of UB’s physical plan. After more than a year of construction, the Department of Biological Sciences began the spring semester on a newly redesigned floor.

Designed for rich, robust research

The Department of Biological Science’s laboratory spaces, designed to foster rich, robust research, were previously closed off from each another. They now feature open walkways that facilitate conversation and idea-sharing between different groups.

Workstations offer a quiet, yet collaborative space for students. Across from the work stations, a series of glass windows provides a glimpse into the laboratories and the research being conducted inside.

The renovated space has a smarter, more open design, as well as state-of-the-art laboratories, offices and casual seating areas that emphasize collaboration between faculty and students. “The thought is that there will be more of exchange and interaction between students and faculty. And, hopefully, new ideas,” says Chair Paul Gollnick.

The space was designed with areas for students to gather. Conference rooms, casual seating nooks and kitchen spaces are tucked into various corners throughout the floor, along with plenty of dry-erase boards for mapping out new ideas on the fly.

Individual workstations offer a quiet space for students.

Text and Photos: Gina Cali-Misterkiewicz