October 5, 2010
Contact:
Jeremy Craig, 404-413-1357
University Relations
Dori Mendel, 770-522-8855
McCarthy Building Companies
|
| Parker H. Petit Science Center |
ATLANTA - The Parker H. Petit Science Center was recently named one of the best new facilities by Southeast Construction magazine, which recognizes construction and design excellence in the southeastern United States.
The facility and its builders, McCarthy Building Companies Inc., were recognized in the higher education/research building category in the magazine's Best of 2010 awards. The 350,000 square-foot facility, which opened March 29, houses research and education programs in biology, chemistry, nursing, nutrition, physical and respiratory therapies, public health, and the Neuroscience Institute.
"The award reflects the dedication and effort which has created a center that will help shape the future of research and learning at the university," said Robin Morris vice president for research.
Construction began on the building, which was designed by HDR/CUH2A, in late 2007, and the facility was completed on time and on budget.
"This award is a great honor for McCarthy," said Kevin Kuntz, McCarthy's Southeast Division president. "We thank our partners at GSU, HDR/CUH2A, and the subcontractors for helping us to deliver a quality project that will serve the university and downtown community for years to come."
The building tied with the Novartis Quality Control Laboratory and Administration Building in Holly Springs, N.C. for the top award in the category.
The science center is named for Parker H. "Pete" Petit, who received his master of business administration degree from GSU in 1973.
The center is home to scientists from the university's Center for Diagnostics and Theraputics, who are working on treatments and diagnostics for diseases. The Petit Science Center also houses biologists exploring a wide range of areas, including those of the Molecular Basis of Disease initiative.
Starting in January 2011, the Petit Science Center will be home to the new Center for Inflammation, Immunity and Infection, which will investigate treatments for infectious diseases and inflammation.
The building also houses a large, 200-million pixel array of computer screens called a "visualization wall," where scientists and faculty are viewing vast amounts of data in large-scale research projects, from public health to geography.
Six general classrooms, a 100-plus seat auditorium and 32 department-specific teaching labs and classrooms occupy the first through fourth floors of the building, through which more than 2,000 students pass through each day.