Close collaboration between clinical and data scientists, as well as other disciplines, is a key success factor.
Forward-thinking life science companies and universities are increasingly taking cues from other sectors when planning workplaces that better support multidisciplinary teamwork. Layouts are providing more flexible space designed for collaboration, spontaneous conversations, and informal meetings. As our survey indicates, as a global average, 15% of overall space is dedicated to collaboration areas. By comparison, global office occupiers overall provide an average of 20% of total space to collaboration zones.
As Generation Z enters the workforce, leading companies are also adapting to changing expectations around work-life balance, wellbeing, and ESG factors. One such example is GSK plc, which opened its new global headquarters in 2024 in central London, with the mission to create one of the healthiest workplaces in the world. The site uses design and technology to drive better health, performance, and a lower environmental impact.
Looking ahead, the future of life science laboratory and office design will continue to evolve, influenced significantly by advancements in technology, changing research needs, and a greater emphasis on sustainability and collaboration.
