Big changes are underway at UF’s Microbiology & Cell Science Building. To meet the growing demand for lab-based undergraduate courses, two new teaching labs are being added, bringing the total number of labs in the building to five. These new spaces will give students more opportunities for hands-on learning in modern, flexible environments designed to support collaboration and discovery.
Project Progress and Timeline
Before the project began, a needs assessment survey was conducted to better understand and validate the required number of laboratory spaces, ensuring the building design directly reflects the unit’s needs. The work began in April 2025, and construction is progressing steadily. The exterior walls and roof are in place, and crews are now working on the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. The labs are scheduled to open in early 2026, complete with modular instructor spaces, modern lab benches, and multiple monitors in each classroom so all students are able to fully engage with and benefit from each class.
Design Features and Improvements
Replacing older seminar space, the addition has been carefully designed to minimize disruption to existing labs and offices while also improving the building’s overall functionality. Beyond expanding capacity, the upgrades will benefit both students and faculty – helping instructors reach more learners and sparking interest in research opportunities among undergraduates.
Partnership with the Department of Microbiology & Cell Science
Throughout the project, FPO worked closely with the Department of Microbiology & Cell Science, especially Professor and Department Chair Eric Triplett, to ensure the new spaces truly meet the needs of students, faculty, and staff. This partnership has been essential in shaping lab layouts, enhancing instructional technology, and coordinating construction activities around the academic schedule. From the FPO side, the project was initially overseen by Sean Mountain, former Director of FPO, and later transitioned to David Hamm, FPO Project Manager.
Challenges and Solutions
The project hasn’t been without challenges – such as working around unsuitable soils during site preparation and carefully scheduling loud construction activities to avoid interfering with classes – but it remains well on track. Looking ahead, casework fixtures, furniture, and audiovisual equipment are currently being installed to complete the renovation, and discussions are already underway about a phase two expansion that could bring even more teaching labs and support spaces in the future.
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