Preface content

The BBSRC National Vaccinology Centre: The Jenner Building

The award-winning BBSRC National Vaccinology Centre: The Jenner Building is The Pirbright Institute’s low-containment facility.

Opened in 2016, it accommodates in vitro research and supports in vivo research activities, primarily performed by avian viral researchers, in addition to those research activities which do not require the high level of containment that the Plowright Building can offer, e.g. endemic viruses of poultry, livestock and avian immunology, genetics and genomics. 

This facility houses a wide range of groups working on strategically important endemic and exotic viral pathogens that can be handled under low containment including Marek’s disease virus (MDV), infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), and low pathogenicity animal influenzas viruses.

The Jenner Building replaces existing laboratory space at Pirbright (and the now closed Compton campus) and is home to 100 scientists. 

Building design

The second facility was completed within "an ambitious master plan that re-works The Pirbright Institute’s disparate agglomeration of buildings into a coherent, forward-looking campus". Designers NBBJ Architects explain that the linear building is rationally organized with open laboratories to the north, to take advantage of daylight and showcase science to the campus; specialist laboratories, engineering and utility spaces along the centre, in a service-intensive zone where daylight is less important; and offices and collaboration space to the south, for natural ventilation and scenic views.  The laboratory and office workplace design supports quiet, concentrated work by individuals alongside space for group collaboration.  Internal travel distances have been minimised, and the adaptability of spaces and services allows for changes in research programmes and group sizes over time. 

Interactive details on the design and layout of the BBSRC National Vaccinology Centre: The Jenner Building can be found on NBBJ Architect's website.

The BBSRC National Vaccinology Centre: The Jenner Building was officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal on 24 March 2017.

 

Jenner Colonade
Exterior colonade of The Jenner Building. Image: © Richard Chivers Photography
Jenner Foyer
The foyer of The Jenner Building. Image: © Richard Chivers Photography
Jenner Lab Corridor
Bright and airy laboratory corridors. Image: © Richard Chivers Photography

Contact

For further information please contact:
The BBSRC National Vaccinology Centre: The Jenner Building
The Pirbright Institute
Ash Road
Pirbright
GU24 0NF

Trim content

® The Pirbright Institute 2024 | A company limited by guarantee, registered in England no. 559784. The Institute is also a registered charity.