Grail

Laboratory, Office, and Warehouse Facility

Accelerated project delivery amid a global pandemic.

Dedicated to earlier cancer detection through innovative technologies, California-based healthcare company Grail sought to open a new location in North Carolina’s prominent Research Triangle Park (RTP). This state-of-the-art production and diagnostic testing facility features advanced laboratory space designed to support next-generation DNA sequencing and reagent manufacturing.

Built in two phases, the first phase establishes laboratory, high-bay warehouse, and testing production space featuring all new electrical and HVAC utilities, as well as infrastructure to support the second phase and final build-out. The second phase includes office, QC lab, and additional warehouse space.

AEI provided mechanical, electrical, and piping/plumbing under an accelerated project schedule to meet ownership goals of being operational in just ten months.

Services

Location

Durham, NC

Partners

  • Brasfield & Gorrie - General Contractor
  • Perkins&Will - Architect of Record

Building Size

200,000 square feet

Awards

  • 2021 Best Project — Renovation/Restoration, ENR Southeast

Advanced laboratory space enables sample processing for Grail's signature multi-cancer early detection test.

Expedited Design

The design team — working primarily remote — participated in numerous weekly virtual meetings amid COVID-19-related shutdowns, developing immediate and long-term space and infrastructure requirements. Alternatives were evaluated based on schedule and both initial and life cycle costs, with the most optimal system based on current needs selected.

In conjunction with designing the tenant improvement space, AEI also coordinated with the RTP core and shell team to ensure seamless integration. As a result of this proactive approach, the design was completed in just four months — ahead of schedule.

300,000
lbs ductwork

Featuring modern, human-centric amenities and office spaces — including a café and collaboration space — the facility appeals to a multidisciplinary talent pool, from scientists to administrative personnel.

Comprising an interior fit-out and new construction, the expanded, high-bay warehouse provides state-of-the-art cold storage space.

Expedited Construction

Given the accelerated project schedule and in anticipation of pandemic impacts to global supply chains, AEI worked closely with the contractor, Brasfield and Gorrie, to help mitigate potential lead-time challenges related to building materials. Collaborative efforts included switching from rectangular duct to spiral, evaluating duct hanging methods, and addressing roof deflection due to existing roof joist re-use.

Constructed and delivered in just under six months, the completed lab and manufacturing facility situated in RTP’s Park Point campus enhances sample processing for Grail’s flagship multi-cancer early detection screening test — contributing to improved patient outcomes and overall care.

A view from the overhead catwalk for maintenance access.

“This expansion is an important step forward in making our pioneering, multi-cancer early detection blood test widely available to patients and healthcare providers across the country.”
— Uplaksh Kumar, Sr. Vice President of Strategic Operations & Scale, Grail

Transparency incorporated throughout the building provides lines of sight between office and lab space types.

Project Leaders