Moderna Opens New Science Center in Cambridge, MA

On Sept. 30, 2021, Moderna announced that it would be opening the Moderna Science Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The 462,000-ft² facility is designed to support Moderna’s continued growth in the messenger RNA (mRNA) medicine sector.

“We have been located in Massachusetts since our founding more than 10 years ago and are proud to be based here,”said Stéphane Bancel, CEO of Moderna, in a company press release. “As we advance our mRNA platform and science, our new science center will integrate digital-first scientific research and development labs along with space for innovation and co-creation with our people and our partners around the world.”

The new building will include custom spaces for research and development, but will also integrate non-scientific spaces to maximize collaboration and innovation. Construction led by Moderna’s long-term partner Alexandria Real Estate Equities has begun, with an expected move-in occurring in 2023.

Moderna highlighted sustainability when discussing the new building. The company is targeting Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum Core & Shell and LEED Zero Energy certifications for the building. According to the press release, Moderna hopes that this site will be the most sustainable commercial lab building in Cambridge. To facilitate these goals, the building will include “ultra-efficient systems” as well as acoustical and light pollution mitigation measures.

“Our commitment to sustainability and accessibility requires us to think differently about space. Even as we grow, we are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint,” said Bancel in the press release. “We will continue to invest in the local economy, work with state and community partners, and leverage the incredible innovation to attract and grow the best talent from the Massachusetts life sciences sector as we work to deliver on the promise of mRNA science.”

Source: Moderna