2026 Lab Design Conference Agenda
The 2026 Lab Design Conference in Orlando, FL, brought together architects, engineers, laboratory owners, facility managers, scientists, and industry experts to explore the latest trends, challenges, and best practices in laboratory planning, design, construction, and operation.
The agenda below provides an overview of the educational sessions, workshops, keynotes, and networking opportunities featured at the event.
If you're considering attending the 2027 Lab Design Conference in Dallas, TX, the 2026 agenda offers a good sense of the topics, speakers, and educational content attendees can expect. While each year's program is unique, our focus remains on delivering practical, non-commercial education for professionals involved in creating high-performance laboratory environments.
May 11, 2026: Workshops
Collaborative Lab Planning: Aligning Space Design with Real-World Workflows
Kelly Sullivan, Global Director of Operations & Labs, CIC
Effective laboratory design begins with understanding how people actually work. This interactive workshop provided practical strategies for engaging stakeholders, uncovering operational needs, and aligning laboratory spaces with real-world scientific workflows through collaborative planning exercises.
Navigating Code Conflicts in Lab Design
Jeremy Lebowitz, Senior Director + Market Leader, Jensen Hughes
Conflicting codes and standards can complicate even the best laboratory projects. This interactive workshop provided practical guidance for navigating regulatory requirements, collaborating with code officials, and using performance-based approaches to improve both safety and laboratory performance.
Minimizing Risk: Liability-Aware Lab Design Strategies
Kevin Hollenbeck, Director of Life Sciences, Precis Engineering + Architecture; Amanda Jones, Director—Project Management, Precis Engineering + Architecture
Using real-world case studies and group exercises, this workshop explored how thoughtful planning can minimize risk throughout laboratory design and construction. Participants gained practical tools for addressing safety, regulatory compliance, and liability while strengthening communication across the project team.
May 12, 2026: Educational agenda
Keynote Session
The Architecture of Innovation: Designing Labs for the Next Scientific Revolution
Marc Mendonca and Carolina Cruz-Neira, University of Florida
The opening keynote brought the perspectives of experienced researchers and university leaders to the forefront of the conversation about laboratory design. Dr. Marc Mendonca and Dr. Carolina Cruz-Neira explored how design decisions, from open lab concepts to emerging virtual reality tools, can shape research and collaboration while emphasizing the importance of involving end users in creating spaces that truly support scientific advancement.
2026 Design Excellence Awards ceremony
Sessions
Energy Improvement When Challenged With Shrinking Budgets
Alison Farmer, Program Director for Labs2Zero and Vice President, I2SL
Shrinking budgets can make energy improvements more challenging, but they can also create opportunities to identify practical, high-impact upgrades. This presentation explored how automated audit tools can help laboratories uncover cost-saving opportunities, prioritize improvements, and make informed energy-efficiency decisions without expensive, resource-intensive studies.
Maximizing Efficiency in Urban Lab Spaces Through Phased Fitouts
Caitlin Walsh, Associate; Katie Archard, Associate Principal, ARC-Architectural Resources Cambridge; Catherine Michalowicz, Senior Construction Project Manager, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Phased fit-outs can help laboratories in dense urban environments adapt to changing needs while making the most of limited space and resources. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s approach demonstrated how laboratory and collaboration spaces can evolve over time while maintaining flexibility and minimizing disruption to ongoing operations.
Lab Design Strategies to Support Scientific Development
Vincent Flickinger, architect, Gensler; Philip Keyes, Senior Director, Site Operations, Nurix Therapeutics, Inc.
Laboratory design can play an important role in supporting both researcher well-being and scientific performance. This session explored how daylighting, biophilic elements, and ergonomic planning can create healthier, more effective environments for scientific work.
Move Magic: How to Successfully Execute a Lab Space Transition
Aimee McKinney, NGS and Molecular Program Manager; Jessica Scholl, QA Program Manager, The Institute for Genomic Medicine at Nationwide Children's Hospital
Lab managers brought a valuable end-user perspective to the conversation by sharing the real-world challenges and pain points that can make laboratory transitions difficult. The speakers offered practical lessons on stakeholder alignment, regulatory compliance, and long-term planning for successfully moving into new or renovated lab spaces.
Smarter Labs, Safer Labs: Optimizing Design with Hazardous Materials in Mind
Nate Roisen, Principal and Science + Tech Practice Leader; Kat Lauer, Project/Lab Planner, BWBR
Hazardous materials affect nearly every aspect of laboratory design, making early planning essential to both safety and project success. This presentation offered practical insights into developing chemical inventories, engaging key stakeholders early, and navigating code requirements while maintaining flexibility.
High Performing and Sustainable Surfaces for the Laboratory—Compact Phenolic Resin
Christian Cole, TrespaTopLab Sales Manager, East & Central US, Formica Corporation
Durable, high-performance materials can help laboratories meet demanding operational and sustainability requirements. Christian Cole of Formica Corporation examined compact phenolic resin surfaces, covering their performance, durability, design flexibility, manufacturing, sustainability benefits, and emerging innovations.
Strong Foundations: Building Understanding Through Lab Programming
Kelly Smyth, Associate Director of Lab Planning, Genesis
Strong laboratory design starts with a clear understanding of the science, workflows, and requirements the space needs to support. Kelly Smyth of Genesis AEC shared strategies for effective lab programming, early data gathering, and communication to translate complex research needs into safe, efficient, and adaptable design decisions.
The Beauty of Manufacturing: Examining New England Biolab's Garden Facility Site Expansion
Christopher Angelakis, Associate Principal, ARC/Architectural Resources Cambridge; Pat Norton, Director, Facilities, New England Biolabs
New England Biolabs’ Garden Facility expansion demonstrates how laboratory campuses can integrate manufacturing, scientific work, and shared spaces into a cohesive environment. The project combined a looped circulation system, biophilic design, and flexible lab planning to strengthen connections between people and functions while supporting workflow efficiency and a distinctive campus identity.
No, We Can't Put It on a Barge: Lessons from a Landlocked Blood Bank Renovation
Gwendolyn Robles, Executive Director, System Laboratory Services; Marsha Pace, System Laboratory Quality & Education Manager; Aaron Odegard, Laboratory Quality Coordinator, Baptist Health System
This session explored how Baptist Health System transformed an aging, space-constrained blood bank into a modern laboratory through thoughtful renovation, workflow redesign, and stakeholder collaboration. The presentation offered practical insights into engaging end users, applying Lean principles, planning for flexibility, and using renovation as an opportunity to improve both laboratory operations and the employee experience.
Roundtable: Academic Lab Design
Juan Archila, Senior Director—Research Infrastructure, Georgia Institute of Technology
This interactive roundtable invited attendees to collaborate with peers in identifying solutions to common academic laboratory design challenges. Through facilitated discussions, rotating breakout groups, and crowdsourced idea sharing, participants exchanged practical strategies and real-world lessons they could apply to future projects.
Pre-gaming With Your Stakeholders
April Day, Senior Director of Laboratory Medicine, Geisinger
Starting a laboratory project successfully requires asking the right questions before design decisions are made. Experienced lab manager April Day of Geisinger Health System led an interactive session that drew on her real-world experience to walk attendees through the key steps, stakeholder conversations, and operational considerations needed to build a strong foundation for a lab project and avoid costly changes later.
Catalyst of Change: A New Era of Connected Manufacturing Ecosystems
Adam Denmark, Science & Technology Strategist and Director of Lab Planning, SmithGroup
This session explored how Arizona State University designed a flexible advanced manufacturing research facility that supports evolving technologies, industry partnerships, and workforce development. The presentation offered practical insights into planning adaptable labs, coordinating complex equipment, and creating spaces that foster collaboration across disciplines.
Panel: Smart Renovation Strategies for Safe, Efficient, and Cost-Effective Lab Environments
Melody Wang, Project Manager, Affiliated Engineers Inc.; Brandon Pourch, project architect, RS&H; Dr. Ranjala Ratnayake, Assistant Scientist, University of Florida; Matt Marino, Preconstruction Manager, Oelrich Construction; Marc LeBrun, Principal, Affiliated Engineers Inc.
Renovating existing laboratories can deliver meaningful improvements in safety, efficiency, and performance without the cost and disruption of major structural expansion. This interactive panel brought together architects, engineers, construction professionals, and a university end user to discuss the University of Florida’s Basic Science Building renovation, sharing lessons from different job roles on overcoming infrastructure constraints, incorporating advanced safety technologies, and making smart, cost-effective renovation decisions.
Understanding Neurodiversity—Why Current Planning Trends Are Missing The Mark
Rachel Updegrove, Lab Planner, HERA Laboratory Planners; Larissa Sattler, Architect, Lab Planner, and Researcher, Perkins&Will; Burnett Grant, Laboratory Scientist, Quality Assurance & Product Development Specialist, and Advocate; Sun Chemical
Designing laboratories for a diverse workforce requires moving beyond one-size-fits-all planning assumptions. The session explored how sensory needs and neurodiversity can be incorporated into programming and user engagement from the outset, rather than addressed later through costly retrofits, to create more inclusive and supportive environments.
Roundtable: Designing Healthier Laboratories through Material Selection
Chen Qin, Climate Action Strategist, DLR Group; Chris Ertl, Principal and Global Science + Technology Leader, DLR Group
Material selection can have a direct impact on laboratory occupant health, sustainability, and long-term performance. This interactive roundtable encouraged attendees to share perspectives and consider how harmful substances, lifecycle impacts, and procurement trade-offs can inform healthier, more sustainable material choices.
Dealing with Uncertainty in a Time of Uncertainty
Gregory Muth, Senior Associate/Senior Project Lab Planner, Ballinger; Katherine Wohlsen, Associate Principal/Senior Project Academic Planner, Ballinger
This presentation demonstrated how Brown University planned a major research facility to remain flexible despite changing research priorities, staffing models, funding conditions, and occupancy needs. It offered practical insights into designing adaptable laboratory infrastructure, planning for uncertainty, and creating spaces that can evolve as science and research organizations change.
After the final educational sessions of the day, the conference’s evening networking reception gave attendees an opportunity to connect with colleagues and continue conversations from the day’s educational sessions. The exhibit hall, which was open throughout the day, also provided a hands-on look at the latest casework, furniture, equipment, and other solutions shaping laboratory design and construction, giving attendees a chance to connect with industry providers and explore new ideas.
May 13, 2026: Educational agenda
From Playbook to Practice: Advancing OSU's College of Engineering with Strategic Planning and Mass Timber Innovation
Milena Di Tomaso, Principal, ZGF Architects; Susan Oehme, Principal, ZGF Architects
This presentation showcased how Oregon State University is using long-term strategic planning to modernize engineering education and research while preparing for future growth. Attendees learned how flexible planning, adaptive reuse, and innovative mass timber construction can support evolving research needs, sustainability goals, and high-performance laboratory design.
From Cubicles to Specimens—Lessons in Speed, Strategy, and Collaboration from a Lab Conversion
Shrei Crenshaw, Founder & Principal Consultant, The Crenshaw Method; Teresa Rodriguez, Managing Director, LPA Design Studios; Levy Minemann, Lab Planner, LPA Design Studios
Using a real-world office-to-laboratory conversion as a case study, this presentation demonstrated how careful planning and cross-functional collaboration can overcome the challenges of adapting existing buildings for laboratory use. Attendees gained practical insights into evaluating existing facilities, engaging stakeholders early, coordinating equipment and workflows, and managing complex laboratory relocations without disrupting operations.
Accelerating Time to Market: Building Biotech Facilities Within Existing Structures
Steve Walter, Process Technology Leader, Hargrove Engineers + Constructors; Grace Pop, Architectural Designer, Hargrove Engineers + Constructors
Retrofitting existing buildings can offer a faster, more cost-effective alternative to new construction for many laboratory projects. This presentation highlighted strategies for converting commercial spaces into compliant, high-performance biotech facilities while balancing schedule, budget, and technical requirements.
Beyond the Surface: Lessons Learned for Interior Laboratory Finishes
Doug Dorney, Health + Life Science Discipline Lead, Architect, Little Diversified Architectural Consulting; Matthew Magro, Director of Finishes and Coatings, Bonitz Inc., Specialty Finish Contractors
This presentation explored the lifecycle costs, durability, and performance of flooring, wall, and ceiling systems in laboratory environments. The session offered practical guidance for selecting interior finishes that balance safety, sustainability, durability, and long-term value.
Designing for Health, Safety, and Science: Transforming Industrial Space into a State-of-the-Art Lab that Inspires Chemists and Environmental Professionals
Mukesh Jani, President, Torrent Laboratory, Inc.
Drawing on the transformation of an industrial warehouse into a modern environmental testing laboratory, this presentation demonstrated how user-centered design can improve laboratory performance, employee well-being, and long-term flexibility. Attendees learned practical strategies for engaging end users, prioritizing air quality and daylight, and creating laboratories that support both science and the people who conduct it.
Roundtable: Addressing Vibration Concerns in Laboratory Design and Renovation
Mike Wesolowsky, Principal/Canada Office Director, Thornton Tomasetti
Vibration can affect both research precision and occupant comfort, making it an important consideration in laboratory design and renovation. This interactive roundtable brought attendees into the conversation, with participants sharing experiences and ideas while Mike Wesolowsky of Thornton Tomasetti offered expert insights into addressing vibration-related challenges.
Panel: Lessons from the Unexpected–Navigating Challenges in Lab Design
Samuel Huber, Design and Construction Manager, Eurofins; Sean T. Convery, Mechanical Engineer, Cator Ruma & Associates, Co.; Paul Thamann, Architect, Hixson; Vladimir Novakovic, Principal, Science & Technology Studio Director, Perspectus
Laboratory projects rarely go exactly as planned, and unexpected challenges can affect budgets, schedules, and project goals. This interactive panel drew on real-world experiences from lab owners, architects, and designers, with panelists and attendees sharing lessons learned and discussing strategies for navigating surprises while keeping projects on track.
Decarbonizing Labs Through Thermal Energy Networks
Charlie Marino, Partner and Co-director of Energy + Performance Team, WSP; Victor Sanchez, Assistant Vice President, WSP
Decarbonizing laboratories requires new approaches to energy infrastructure. This presentation examined how utility thermal energy networks can help research campuses share energy resources, recover waste heat, and reduce emissions while addressing the unique operational demands of laboratory buildings.
The Good, the Bad, and the Green: Making the Case for Renovation and Adaptive Reuse in Laboratory Design
Cody Henderson, Associate Principal, Mackey Mitchell Architects
Rather than assuming a new building is the best solution, this presentation examined how adaptive reuse can provide a practical and sustainable path for laboratory projects. It offered real-world lessons on evaluating existing buildings, engaging stakeholders, designing for long-term flexibility, and avoiding common renovation pitfalls.
Navigating Laboratory Automation: Benefits, Implementation Strategies, and Building a Compelling Business Case
Tina Yauger, Principal Consultant, Clarkston Consulting
Laboratory automation can improve efficiency, consistency, and scalability, but successful implementation requires careful planning and organizational support. This presentation explored how laboratories can assess their readiness for automation, develop effective implementation strategies, and build a compelling business case for gaining organizational buy-in.
BREAKOUT: Challenges and Opportunities for Your Next Laboratory Renovation
John Saad, Managing Principal, Vanderweil Engineers; Drew Simpson, Project Manager and Lead Mechanical Engineer, Vanderweil Engineers; Brian Roth, Senior Associate, Senior Project Manager, Science & Technology, ikm architecture; Jonathan Lusin, Principal, ikm architecture
This panel brought together architects and engineers to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of laboratory renovation projects. Through real-world examples, the speakers shared strategies for evaluating existing facilities, engaging stakeholders, overcoming infrastructure constraints, and creating flexible laboratories that support future research.
Optimizing Lab Design: Supporting Scientific Operations and Ensuring Biosafety
Julianne Baron, President, Science & Safety Consulting
Effective laboratory design starts with understanding how scientific work is performed and incorporating those needs from the earliest planning stages. This presentation explored common design pitfalls that can affect efficiency, ergonomics, and biosafety while offering practical strategies for collaboration between design teams and lab users to create safe, functional, and adaptable spaces.
Designing for Impact: Building a Future-Ready Pathology Lab
Alfonso Ortiz, Assistant Director of Pathology Services, Project Management, University Health San Antonio; Tomekia Trimble, Anatomic Pathology Manager, University Health San Antonio
High-volume pathology laboratories require design strategies that support safety, efficiency, and the needs of the people using the space. This presentation explored how thoughtful planning of layout, ventilation, and ergonomics can improve workflow, reduce risks, and create more effective, future-ready pathology environments.
Building Sustainable Labs for Decarbonization: Integrating Renewable Energy into Modern Laboratory Design
Shannon Kaplan, Senior Vice President, WSP
Renewable energy can play an important role in reducing laboratory carbon emissions while supporting long-term operational goals. This presentation explored strategies for integrating renewable energy into laboratory design and examined the financial and environmental benefits of taking a long-term approach to decarbonization.
PANEL: Insights from Lab End Users–Avoiding Pitfalls in Laboratory Projects
Scott Hanton, Editorial Director, Lab Manager; Dwayne Henry, Instructional Lab Manager of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Montgomery College-Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus; April Day, Senior Director of Laboratory Medicine, Geisinger; Jessica Nanes, Laboratory Supervisor, Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District
Experienced lab end users brought a valuable perspective to the interactive panel Insights from Lab End Users—Avoiding Pitfalls in Laboratory Projects. Panelists shared lessons learned from designing, building, and renovating their own laboratory spaces, offering practical advice to lab users who are just beginning their projects. The discussion also gave project teams insight into how to better understand client needs, communicate with end users, and avoid common pitfalls. By bringing experienced lab users together with others facing new projects, the session created opportunities to share ideas, experiences, and valuable connections.
Labs in Flux: Designing for the Science You Can't Yet Predict
Thomas Clune, Vice President and Senior Project Manager, CannonDesign; Charu McDermott, Associate Vice President, CannonDesign
Laboratories must be designed to adapt as research priorities, technologies, and funding conditions change. This closing session explored strategies for creating flexible, future-ready environments that can evolve with science rather than becoming constrained by today’s needs.
