Oberlanders completed this research laboratory (circa £10m) for The University of Edinburgh at the Western General Hospital in 2015, having previously prepared the feasibility study in 2009. The site is prominently located on the east side of the campus overlooking the grounds of Fettes College, with stunning views of the Edinburgh skyline. The new building links three existing buildings(Medical Research Council, University and Cancer Research Laboratory) to form a world class research institute. With a central atrium space and a new iconic frontage, the project includes research space for informatics, statistical and computational scientists together with 'hot desk' provision for visiting colleagues. The building is designed to enhance communication within the Institute, with a new 180 seat lecture theatre, seminar areas and a 'Nucleus' gathering space with café. Innovation and sustainability were key drivers for the design process. The glazing of the concave curved façade achieved a high standard of solar glare and thermal control, while no primary heat source was required by maximising heat recovery with intelligent controls to all services, all combining to achieve a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating.