Major construction project under way at McGill University
Work begins on Francesco Bellini Life Sciences Building and Pavilion for Cancer Research
One of the largest construction projects undertaken at McGill University in recent years will begin this week with a groundbreaking ceremony tomorrow for the Francesco Bellini Life Sciences Building as well as the new Pavilion for Cancer Research.
The project is funded by a $10-million donation from scientist and businessman Dr. Francesco Bellini, a major grant from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, and Quebec government support. Bellini, who marketed 3TC, the first anti-HIV compound drug, says his donation is in recognition of research on the drug by McGill's Department of Chemistry. "They discovered the biggest AIDS drug in the world. This is a personal thank you for what they did."
- When: Friday, December 9, 10:00 am
- Where: Stewart Biology Building, 1205 Dr. Penfield Avenue, Montreal, Rm S1/3
- What: Groundbreaking ceremony
- Who: Journalists RSVP to kristine.greenaway [at] mcgill.ca
The Francesco Bellini Life Sciences Building will house 60 principal investigators and as many as 600 research personnel. They will join more than 2,000 researchers, technical personnel, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows already working in biomedical research at the University.
Bellini is enthusiastic about bringing scientists from different disciplines together under one roof. "Scientists often work by themselves, like artists. Here, they will have the opportunity to advance their projects faster with continual interaction."
Carmen Charette, Senior Vice-President of the Canada Foundation for Innovation, expressed support for the project. "This investment exemplifies what the CFI is all about: providing institutions and researchers the tools they require to carry out leading-edge research that will benefit all Canadians."
Professor Martin Grant, Dean of the Faculty of Science, explained, "The Bellini and cancer buildings will be like a crossroads where developmental biologists, cancer and biomedical researchers will meet and interact every day," adding, "This will allow the results of their research to move from the laboratory into the clinic more quickly, a process that has been dubbed the 'bench-to-bedside' philosophy."
With this addition to McGill's existing medical research facilities, the University will boast one of the largest groups of life sciences researchers in Canada, further enhancing the University's — and indeed Montreal's — position as a major centre for biotechnology research and development. The city currently ranks in the top ten North American cities for employment in the biopharmaceutical industry, with the need for qualified personnel expected to double in the next few years.
McGill Principal Heather Munroe-Blum sees the new Life Sciences Complex as key to ensuring the University's global leadership position in medical research. "McGill University has an outstanding record of research success in the life sciences, including the 3TC development, which is at the heart of this marvelous public and private investment. McGill's successes in these areas bring enormous benefits to the people of Quebec and Canada, as we attract, develop and retain the most promising researchers in the world, to build their lives and careers here in Quebec. Success requires the very best facilities and tools, such as the LSC being undertaken today."
Professor Abraham Fuks, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, agreed. "Training is a key component of what will happen in the new complex," said Fuks. "Young scientists will receive their training while working with the top people in the world. This will produce a new cohort of scientists equipped with the multidisciplinary skills and outlook needed for 21st-century investigation and development."
About the Canada Foundation for Innovation
The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) is an independent corporation created by the Government of Canada to fund research infrastructure. The CFI's mandate is to strengthen the capacity of Canadian universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research institutions to carry out world-class research and technology development that benefits Canadians.
About McGill University
McGill University is Canada's leading research-intensive university and has earned an international reputation for scholarly achievement and scientific discovery. Founded in 1821, McGill has 21 faculties and professional schools, which offer more than 300 programs from the undergraduate to the doctoral level. McGill attracts renowned professors and researchers from around the world and top students from more than 150 countries, creating one of the most dynamic and diverse education environments in North America. There are approximately 23,000 undergraduate students and 7,000 graduate students. It is one of two Canadian members of the American Association of Universities. McGill's two campuses are located in Montreal, Canada.
To arrange media interviews, please contact Kristine Greenaway at 514-398-7698 or kristine.greenaway [at] mcgill.ca (by email).
