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| Science Facility Rendering |
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
Melissa Joseph
U of T Scarborough
416-287-7089