HRH, The Princess Royal officially opened the Laboratory of Medical Sciences (LMS) at Imperial College London’s Hammersmith campus on Tuesday, January 23.

The £120 million eight-storey building, designed by Hawkins\Brown is home to 400 scientists working on understanding genes, the environment, heart and metabolic diseases, and differences between sexes in diseases.

The building was designed to amplify the Institute’s core strength of bridging the gap between scientists exploring fundamental biological mechanisms and those translating that work into clinical applications. Its modern design is a step change for scientists working at the laboratory – which traces its history back more than 60 years. The building’s central staircase and atrium visually connect all floors, encouraging researchers from a range of different disciplines to socialise and collaborate.

Led by Professor Wiebke Arlt since January 2023, the LMS is introducing a fresh approach to research called ‘Team Science.’ Unlike the traditional model of a single heroic scientist, Team Science encourages collaboration among different types of scientists, as well as the views of the public and patients – a first for a core-funded UK government institute.

Beyond laboratory work, the LMS will be reaching out to the local community. By welcoming in local residents, participating in community events, and offering public lectures, the institute aims to make science accessible and relevant to everyone.