Boston– BioBuilder Educational Foundation, a nonprofit offering innovative ways to teach, learn and explore cutting-edge science and engineering, announced the opening of its new Learning Lab space to facilitate life sciences educational programming.
The new space is part of the Allston Labworks, a mixed-use campus, developed by King Street Properties, located on Western Avenue. Allston Labworks will offer state-of-the-art research labs, residential and retail spaces, and over an acre of public open space, making it a hub for both life science companies and the Allston community.
The newest Learning Lab offers ongoing BioBuilder programming and workforce training programs to provide local students, educators and incumbent workers with hands-on experience for 21st century biotechnology. Programs include specialty seminars and workshops for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals in addition to engaging modules to build scientific understanding in DNA and protein analysis, biomanufacturing and synthetic biology through at-the-bench training, lab practicals and peer-to-peer learning. Capital equipment for the Learning Lab was made possible through more than $630,000 worth of funding through the Massachusetts Life Science Center’s (MLSC) STEM Equipment and Professional Development Grant Program.
“As the biotech hub in Massachusetts continues to grow, now is the perfect time to make our advanced science experiences and hands-on education accessible for more students in traditionally underserved populations,” said Dr. Natalie Kuldell, founder and executive director of BioBuilder. “Through our first Learning Lab at Ginkgo Bioworks in Boston’s Seaport District, we’ve seen firsthand how exposure to ‘real-world’ science and STEM career skills can excite students about science and encourage them to pursue careers in this growing industry. We are thrilled to expand our programming to Allston and advance the local life sciences and bioeconomy by training the future scientists, engineers and the skilled workforce of tomorrow.”
“Today marks an exciting milestone in the partnership between development and community that has been several years in the making,” said Mike DiMinico, managing director of King Street Properties. “Allston Labworks is poised to become a premier destination for life science innovation, offering state-of-the-art research facilities, dynamic community spaces, and a collaborative environment that fosters growth and creativity. This development reflects our commitment to supporting the continued expansion of the biotech sector in Boston and beyond, providing companies, educators, and future leaders with the resources they need to drive the next wave of scientific discovery.”
Allston Labworks is expected to enhance the Western Avenue neighborhood by encouraging life science research and development, benefiting the business ecosystem and broader community. In addition to the Learning Lab, the 585,000 square foot, 4.3-acre development featuring three buildings includes 534,000 square feet of lab space, 20,000 square feet of retail, 35 residential units and community spaces open to the public.
