Description of Request

Submitted By: VPRED

Recently, multiple research entities have been granted lab space in the Molecular Bioscience Building. However, there is still a need for additional office/cubicle space for graduate students and MSU employees to do non-laboratory work and have a general break area outside of lab spaces. A renovation of the unused “lab” space in MBB 239 is being proposed to fill this need. The Office of Research Compliance has audited the area and determined that this space is considered outside of containment of the surrounding labs, and from a safety standpoint should be non-containment (non-lab space) and not be utilized for working with hazardous materials. Staff recommends a change in use from lab space to office, so that it may fill the growing need to accommodate non-lab related activities. Minor renovations would be needed, including but not limited to, removing temporary walls that enclose a smaller, non-compliant lab area, and if the request is approved, one of the current lab benches would be reutilized and relocated to 242, which would save funds for the current remodel of MBB 242 for the incoming Smithsonian research group. The resultant space will seat 12-16 students consistent with space standards and dependent on layout, and also provide for a small break area. This space will be central to several labs and encourage interaction among the students supporting those labs.

Resolution

Date: August 4, 2023

Space Management Committee has approved the change in use of MBB 239 from lab service to office, for repurposing and utilization by graduate students and employees for non-lab related work.