A newly created genomics research institute will occupy additional laboratory space in Tempe until its permanent complex is completed in downtown Phoenix, the organization said Friday.
The Translational Genomics Research Institute will sublease 13,344 square feet from OrthoLogic Corp. at 1275 W. Washington St., which it will convert to interim labs. The space is in addition to about 7,000 square feet in an adjacent building that has been donated to TGen by Banner Health Arizona, said Francie Noyes, institute spokeswoman.
“What this means is we will have about 20,000 square feet of lab space in one location, which is very helpful,” she said. “All of the scientific programs will be co-located.”
Researchers are expected to move into the quarters during the next two to three months, she said. The institute, a public-private partnership formed last summer, is dedicated to discovering cures and treatments for genetic-related diseases.
Backers of the institute believe it will serve as the foundation for an expanded biotechnology industry in Arizona, developing medical technologies with the potential to be commercialized. The Tempe labs will have room for about 200 scientists and technicians, about 40 of which are expected to on board by the end of March.
