Laboratories Canada: Strengthening science for the future

Canada’s scientific infrastructure needs an update. Much of it was built prior to the 1970s when, what’s now considered routine research, such as the manipulation of DNA, was just becoming mainstream. Some buildings even date back to the 1950s or earlier. While laboratories used to have glass test tubes and Bunsen burners, they’re now equipped with gene analyzers, sequencing equipment and other complex machinery. The evolving infrastructure needs of our labs mean they must be redesigned and modernized to enable present and future science.

Led by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) since 2018, Laboratories Canada is a long-term strategy. It aims to engage and work with federal scientists and researchers across government with the goal of creating world-class scientific infrastructure rooted in the principles of collaboration and innovation.

The strategy is in phase 1, which focuses on the construction of 5 science hubs. The effort involves reimagining and outfitting the facilities based on an approach that ensures science is at the forefront of the spaces created, and that buildings are designed for multi-departmental, interdisciplinary collaboration. This updated infrastructure will better support scientists in their work and ensure scientists have access to leading-edge and adaptable spaces.

Bryan Rennie is a senior manager at Laboratories Canada Science Services within the Science and Parliamentary Infrastructure Branch at PSPC. He explains that the approach Canada is taking was inspired by similar science hubs constructed around the world, including in the United Kingdom, Germany and Australia. "In keeping with these models, we’re looking at optimization as a means of making our laboratory infrastructure more future-proof, innovative and efficient," he points out.

"For example, to overcome space challenges, redesigned labs will be more flexible, with movable walls, drop-down utilities and seamless flooring. This will allow us to pivot and use spaces differently, in accordance with the scientific need, and prepare us to meet emerging requirements," says Rennie, who has had a long career in the science sector.

"As well, some older labs have many preparatory and clean-up areas. As part of the new hub-style facility, there’s an opportunity to build a central location shared by all lab users for washup and decontamination. This kind of centralization not only saves space by ensuring well-planned rooms, it’s more efficient for laboratory staff, as they have access to best-in-class sanitation equipment, which they would not be able to afford individually," he remarks. "It’s a win-win solution on many fronts."

Collaborative science

The new vision also involves making our laboratories more collaborative spaces by bringing scientists together as a community. A great example of collaborative success is the Atlantic Science Enterprise Centre, 1 of the 5 science hubs in phase 1.

Since its launch, the Atlantic hub has promoted greater collaboration between scientists who are literally in buildings across the street from each other. "We’re currently seeing the benefits of breaking down silos between science departments through new collaborative research projects," Rennie notes.

While the new science vision is still in the first phase of implementation, some laboratory projects are almost complete. The TerraCanada advanced materials research facility in Mississauga, Ontario, is one such project. This facility is dedicated to building a low-carbon economy through a program that tests advanced and innovative materials for the energy and transportation sector.

When ready, the facility will be managed by National Research Council Canada, and will serve as the headquarters of a partnership with Natural Resources Canada, the University of Toronto and the University of Waterloo, to support modern manufacturing materials and processes. The new science hub will offer a unique opportunity for collaboration between the private sector, government and academia. The focus will be on the development of next-generation clean materials, such as photovoltaics, renewable fuels and fuel cells.

Featuring cutting-edge science facilities, the new lab space at the advanced materials research facility has also been designed with an environmental focus and carbon-neutral operations. All of the science hubs in the works aim to achieve efficiency on the sustainability front while ensuring Canada remains a leader in the science sector.

"It’s very rewarding to support this important Canadian science transformation initiative," concludes Rennie.

Visit Laboratories Canada to learn more about this strategy and the 5 science hubs in phase 1. For more stories about PSPC people, projects and initiatives, and how they make a difference in the lives of Canadians, add Our stories to your favourites.