This story first appeared in Mayo's research magazine, Discovery's Edge.

Artist's rendering of building in Discovery Square.

Scientists from three Mayo Clinic research areas will be the first tenants of Discovery Square, the technology centerpiece of Destination Medical Center, the economic development initiative under way in Rochester, Minnesota. Biomedical technology, advanced manufacturing of regenerative products, and advance diagnostics are the collaborative areas that will occupy 30,000 square feet over several floors of this initial building.

While early concepts of the multi-use “building DS-1” were announced earlier, this is the first public announcement of Mayo as the anchor tenant of the structure. Construction is by Mortenson, the Minnesota-based developer of the 16-block Discovery Square sub-district. Groundbreaking is set for late this fall, with occupancy targeted for 2019.

As anchor tenants, the Mayo researchers will serve as potential collaborators for other research entities that will move to Discovery Square and for subsequent tenants of the first building.

“Our research presence in Discovery Square will serve as a catalyst for ideas and projects that transform medicine and accelerate the discovery, translation and application of life-changing therapies and technologies so our patients receive exactly the care they need when it’s needed,” says Gregory Gores, M.D., executive dean of research, Mayo Clinic.

The three research areas will focus on new tests and products that will change patient care:

• Biomedical Technology
  Here, work will concentrate on developing innovative ways to apply technologies. Initially focused on ultrasound, the design of the space will enable other modalities and engineering technologies, as needed. A true science incubator, the space will enable interaction with industry partners to jointly enhance and develop new uses for biomedical devices.
• Advanced Manufacturing of Regenerative Products
  This area will focus on creating products that can be used for therapeutic treatment, particularly products for regenerative therapies. The space will enable the development and potentially the production of these new therapies.
• Advanced Diagnostics Center
  Mayo will use this space to collaborate with outside groups on new medical tests that can better diagnose disease. Scientists will use genomics and other tools to focus on conditions that don’t yet have clinical diagnostic tests and develop better tests for those that do.

The building will be owned and operated by Mortenson and be situated on land leased from Mayo Clinic. The construction will feature an open, inviting environment to enhance communications and collaboration. It will also provide areas to showcase science so visitors can experience some of the science that is happening in the building.

Background on DMC

The Destination Medical Center (DMC) is the largest public-private partnership in Minnesota history, estimated to generate 40,000 jobs over the next 20 years – making the state a global center for the highest-quality medical care. With Mayo Clinic at its heart, the DMC initiative is a catalyst to position Minnesota as the world’s premier destination for health and wellness; and Rochester as America’s City for Health. DMC will attract people, investment opportunities, and support the growth of Minnesota’s bioscience sector.

Tags: Biobusiness, Biomedical Technology, Discovery Square, Mayo Clinic, Medical Research, News, regenerative medicine, Rochester Minn., stem cells