New life sciences complex to transform STEMM studies

The University’s new life sciences complex has been officially opened, offering Australia’s most sophisticated STEMM teaching laboratories and facilities, and strengthening the global status of Melbourne’s biomedical precinct.

For the first time, the University will have staff and students from three faculties – Science; Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences; and Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences – in one building.

The new complex underpins the University’s commitment to global excellence in life sciences teaching, learning, research and engagement, enabling a cross-disciplinary approach to teaching and learning.

More than 700 students a day in the STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine) fields will be learning in the new four-level, 6-star Green Star building on the corner of Tin Alley and Royal Parade.

The building includes three large practical teaching laboratories, an object-based learning facility, three classrooms for small group and problem-based learning as well as informal learning and study spaces, all of which are dedicated to preparing the bioscientists, doctors and veterinarians of the future.

Victorian Minister for Higher Education Gayle Tierney joined University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor Duncan Maskell to open the building on 23 March.

“The new complex allows the University of Melbourne to offer a premier teaching and learning experience and the best facilities in biosciences in our region. The building design, architecture and the resources available to students and lecturers is first class,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

“We will be able to grow our Faculty of Science, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences and Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences and continue to attract the leading students and lecturers to make a real difference in the life sciences fields globally.

“The building is a tremendous addition to the Melbourne biomedical precinct.”