The University of Chicago, alongside private developers Trammell Crow Company and Beacon Capital Partners, has opened a groundbreaking life sciences and technology R&D hub on the city’s South Side. Known as Hyde Park Labs, this state-of-the-art 13-storey tower will serve as a collaborative incubator for researchers, startups, and global companies driving innovation.
1. Overview of Hyde Park Labs Project
The new facility is a 13-storey, 300,000-square-foot tower located in Hyde Park. It officially opened in September following construction completion this summer.
2. University of Chicago’s Role
The university will occupy 100,000 square feet across the top three floors of the tower, focusing on biological sciences and life sciences R&D.
Mark Anderson, Dean of the Biological Sciences Division, emphasized the goal:
“Creating new opportunities for our researchers to partner with entrepreneurs, industry, and the broader scientific community to bring transformative ideas to life.”
3. Key Private Sector Partners
The development was led by Trammell Crow Company and Beacon Capital Partners, ensuring both research and business incubation opportunities are supported.
4. Focus on Early-Stage Companies
The hub will function as a science incubator, helping turn early-stage deep-tech concepts into commercial opportunities.
5. Companies Already Onboard
Six university-affiliated companies have already joined the incubator:
- memQ
- Exactics
- Signl
- Cell Therapy
- ZipBionexus Tech
- Neuro Innovations
6. IBM Quantum Computer Breakthrough
The ground floor houses IBM’s next-generation modular quantum computer (IBM Quantum System Two), a first-of-its-kind for the Chicago area. Eventually, it will move to the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park.
7. Features of the Building
Hyde Park Labs offers advanced Class-A lab and office spaces, community features, and modern amenities:
- Fifth-floor terrace called “The Lawn” with grills, firepits, and lake views
- Retail spaces on the ground floor
- Private terraces on each floor
- Secure bike storage
- Indoor lounge and bar
- Four levels of parking
8. Community Engagement Through STEM
The building will host the Southside STEM Station, providing outreach programs to engage disadvantaged youth and encourage careers in science and technology.
9. Integration with Hyde Park Development
Hyde Park Labs is part of the second phase of Harper Court, a commercial development with office, retail, and hotel tenants on Chicago’s South Side.
10. Statements from Leaders
Fred Seigel, President and CEO of Beacon Capital Partners, highlighted the importance of collaboration:
“The university’s lease at Hyde Park Labs reflects its commitment to pursuing breakthrough discoveries through collaboration with leading researchers and by supporting early and growth stage companies.”
11. Impact on Chicago’s South Side
Located just 10 miles south of downtown, this project revitalizes a historic neighborhood and complements the nearby Obama Presidential Center, currently under construction in Jackson Park.
12. Future Opportunities
The facility is designed to accelerate breakthroughs in clean energy, quantum technology, and biotechnology. By embedding students, researchers, and entrepreneurs together, it fosters an ecosystem of discovery and commercialization.
Conclusion
The University of Chicago’s Hyde Park Labs represents a bold investment in the future of science, technology, and community development. By combining world-class research with private sector innovation, the hub is set to become a catalyst for life sciences and deep-tech advancements.