Works have commenced on the University of Edinburgh’s Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI) which will see the creation of new research spaces to address major disease challenges.

Robertson Construction Central East is delivering the alteration and refurbishment works.

Located next to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Little France, the five-storey research institute is undergoing refurbishments to its ground, first and second floors in order to create new upgraded research spaces to meet home office licence requirements and to accommodate relocating research groups.

The QMRI is made up of three strategic research centres: Cardiovascular Science, Inflammation Research and Reproductive Health, each addressing major disease challenges.

The recently commenced works comprise a state-of-the-art electrophysiology research support space, relocation of the existing mass spectrometry facility and improvements to the laboratories. QMRI will also benefit from finishes to the interior alongside building services involving lift, mechanical, electrical and plumbing installations.

Additionally, specialist installations of medical gases will take place to serve the newly refurbished research facility when works are complete in winter 2024.

Works are being carried out in a live environment with the building’s café, laboratories, teaching spaces and offices still in use.

David Cairns, managing director, Robertson Construction Central East, said: “The Queen’s Medical Research Institute refurbishment project holds immense significance not only for the university but also for the advancement of medical research and healthcare on a global scale. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that this bespoke facility meets the highest standards, providing researchers with the cutting-edge spaces they need to make ground-breaking discoveries."

"We are excited to continue our strong relationship with the university as we undertake our 14th project for them. Having previously delivered the remodelling of the QMRI’s ‘clinical imaging facilities’, we understand how important these new facilities are for current and future users. By repurposing existing buildings, the university is demonstrating its commitment to sustainability."

Professor Stuart Forbes, Dean of Research at the University of Edinburgh’s College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, said: “Over the past few years, QMRI has established itself as a world-class clinical research facility, developing solutions to major disease challenges. These refurbishments will bring great benefits to the work our researchers carry out and ensure that the University of Edinburgh remains a leading innovator in healthcare.”

The QMRI project was procured through the CCS Construction Works and Associated Services (CWAS) Framework and Robertson Construction Central East was appointed following a two-stage process.