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A new building that is a joint venture between The University of Western Australia and the Western Australian Institute for Medical Research (WAIMR) is the winner of the Bassett Award for Sustainable Development in the 2009 Property Council State Innovation and Excellence Awards.

The Biomedical Research Facility at UWA's Shenton Park Field Station is tipped to speed up research into the genetic causes of human diseases. It houses some of the nation's leading scientists and researchers and has already received several awards for innovation and commitment to design and sustainability.

It was designed by Hames Sharley, whose Peel office building for Alcoa was also a finalist in the awards. Principal of Hames Sharley, James Edwards, said the building was testament to the University's early leadership in sustainability and the project set a high benchmark.

The 3,000 square metre facility harnesses the latest advances in scientific, technological and research developments in Australia and abroad, among them an Australian-first sanitation system which ensures safer decontamination.

WAIMR Director Peter Klinken said the facility would help accelerate research being undertaken by WAIMR, UWA and hospital staff and researchers. Its innovative design features allow for contemporary research of the highest standard.

"The facility boasts innovative new technologies and equipment that will enable more rapid identification and testing of genes involved in human disease," Professor Klinken said.

It is the first of three planned facilities which will combine to form a platform of excellence for biomedical research in WA.

Media references

James Edwards (Hame Sharley) (+61 8) 9381 9877
Sally-Ann Jones (UWA Public Affairs) (+61 8) 6488 7975 / (+61 4) 20 790 098