Advancing the study of structural biology: UT Health Science One.

UTH Science One is strategically positioned adjacent to the Barshop Institute with both structures physically connected on levels 1 to 3, fostering collaboration and resource-sharing between. The design of Science One incorporates modular planning principles, allowing for dynamic reconfiguration of open laboratories to accommodate evolving research priorities and equipment needs.

Level 1 of Science One anticipates the establishment of a future Core Lab with dedicated Cryo-Electron Microscopy research. Cryo-EM is an imaging technique with the potential to visualize proteins, especially those challenging to analyze using traditional methods. The inclusion of a Cryo-EM suite on the first floor represents a leap forward for UT Health’s structural biology department.

The Cryo-EM suite is designed with meticulous planning, featuring a dedicated microscope room prioritizing instrument precision, optimal space, and vibration isolation. A wet lab area is included for secure and organized sample preparation, while a distinct space for control room and data collection emphasizes the computational needs of Cryo-EM research. Facilities are user-centric, providing ergonomic workspaces and collaborative meeting rooms to foster a conducive research environment. Security measures, such as access controls and surveillance, are implemented to safeguard Cryo-EM equipment and data.

The interdisciplinary team faced technical challenges in the design process, including the selection of an optimal location and the implementation of environmental controls. Stable conditions for sample preparation and imaging required careful consideration of temperature and humidity controls. The team navigated complexities in building infrastructure to create a cleanroom environment to shield Cryo-EM instruments from external disturbances and contaminants.

Addressing electrical and power requirements was crucial, leading to the establishment of a power distribution system capable of sustaining the demands of multiple instruments. An HVAC system was integrated to remove heat and minimize dust, fostering an environment conducive to both equipment and researchers. Safety protocols, including emergency equipment and training programs for researchers working with cryogenic materials, were incorporated.

The design team demonstrated foresight by ensuring the facility’s scalability and flexibility to adapt to evolving technologies. Compliance with building codes, safety regulations, and standards constituted a foundational element, emphasizing the commitment to safety requirements in the innovative realm of Cryo-EM research. Overall, the Cryo-EM suite is poised to enhance the landscape of structural biology research at UT Health.