University of Virginia’s Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology Tops Out

The Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia has reached a major milestone with its recent topping out, led by development and construction firm Skanska. This significant milestone represents the installation of 3,739 tons of structural steel and over 160,000 worker hours dedicated to the project to date.

Upon completion, the $350-million facility will span 355,809 square feet across five stories and provide modern, flexible laboratory space, expanded research and core capabilities, as well as an area for researchers and partnering biotechnology companies. Located in Fontaine Research Park, the advanced laboratory and research space at the Manning Institute of Biotechnology will offer amenities for the broader community including a cafe and conference center to encourage collaboration among researchers.

Construction of the institute represents a transformative milestone that will position the University of Virginia at the forefront of cellular therapy, gene therapy, nanotechnology and targeted drug delivery research. The institute will focus on the research, development, commercialization and manufacturing of new cellular, gene and immunotherapies. The facility is projected to generate hundreds of jobs directly and potentially thousands indirectly by attracting pharmaceutical and biotech companies to create a new ecosystem of innovation.

Construction began in December 2023 and is expected to be completed in fourth quarter 2027.

Photos courtesy of UVA Health