The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) is seeking an Executive Architect to perform Design and Construction Administration services, for a new lab suite renovation on the 4th floor of Minor Hall. The scope of the project is to renovate an existing 1,130 sf research suite into a laser lab with support spaces for Dr. Guanghan Meng and her research group. Dr. Meng is a tenure-track Assistant Professor at the Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science, and is affiliated with Vision Science, Applied Science & Technology (AS&T) and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) PhD programs. The Meng Lab applies methods of optical physics and modern computational science to develop cutting-edge optical microscopy technologies for eye and brain imaging. The Meng Lab is a highly interdisciplinary team with researchers from a variety of backgrounds spanning physics, engineering, and biology. The new suite will include a BSL-2 level laser lab with (2) to (3) 8 ft. optical tables set up for animal research with mice. A separate, smaller dry lab will incorporate (1) 6 to 8 ft. optical table. The project will also include workstation and collaborative areas for her team, and a private office for Dr. Meng. The scope is expected to include removal of several existing walls, construction of new walls, a new hand sink with eyewash, new dropped ceilings in two of the spaces, limited flooring repairs and patching, HVAC modifications to ensure sufficient air changes, and the addition of HEPA filtration at supply air outlets. Additionally, new doors, frames, and hardware will be needed, as well as casework modifications, countertop updates, and limited painting scope. Installation and bracing of optical tables, overhead racks, laser safety signage, laser curtains, and other laser-related infrastructure will be incorporated as necessary to meet LSO requirements. Compressed air plumbing may be needed in main lab spaces for optical table operation. Structural, fire life safety system, and accessibility updates should be included as required for campus building department, fire marshal, and EHS approval.
