Reviewed by: Pat Byington
UAB opens new Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building
Reading time: 5 minutes
After three years of construction, the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s (UAB) brand-new Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building is finally complete. The University celebrated the ribbon-cutting and grand opening of the new facility today, marking the seventh new or renovated facility to open on campus in the last five months.
“A symbol of Alabama’s commitment to the future of medicine”
Located along 7th Avenue South between 19th and 20th Streets, UAB’s Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building marks a new era for UAB, Birmingham and the state of Alabama in biomedical research and innovation.
“This new facility stands as a symbol of Alabama’s commitment to the future of medicine, a future defined by pursuit of innovation and collaboration. When Governor Ivey joined UAB to break ground on this project three years ago, she called it a signature investment for the state of Alabama. Today, we see that vision realized.”
Bill Poole, Director, Alabama Department of Finance
First announced in 2020, the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building is a dynamic hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, uniting researchers, equipment and staff from:
- Heersink School of Medicine
- Hugh Kaul Precision Medicine Institute
- The Department of Biomedical Informatics and Data Science
- The Center for Clinical and Translational Science
- Live HealthSmart Alabama
- The Comprehensive Healthy Living Research Center
- The Marnix Heersink Institute for Biomedical Innovation
The 175,000-square-foot facility is both a physical and symbolic connector for UAB Medicine, uniting the University’s core missions of research, clinical care and education with the research enterprise to the south, clinical operations to the north and the heart of the medical school—Volker Hall—to the west.
“This building is more than bricks and mortar — it’s a launchpad for discovery. The people who work in this unique, world-class facility will drive innovations that improve lives locally and worldwide and position UAB and Alabama as global leaders in precision medicine and data sciences.”
Dr. Ray L. Watts, M.D., President, The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Supported by public and private donors
The multi-million-dollar price tag on the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building was first supported by a $10M pledge from the Altec/Styslinger Foundation, a private grantmaking foundation of Birmingham-based Altec Industries. The foundation’s initial investment attracted additional public funding from the City of Birmingham ($5M), Jefferson County ($5M) and a massive contribution from the state of Alabama ($50M).
“This project represents the very best of Alabama, what can happen when universities, state and local leaders and private partners come together behind a shared vision.
Funded through $50 million from the state of Alabama—the largest-ever state investment in the University facility—along with support from Jefferson County, the City of Birmingham and generous donors like the Altec/Styslinger Foundation and Dr. Marnix and Mary Heersink, it is truly a public-private partnership in action and proof that when we work together, Alabama can compete and lead on the world stage.”
Bill Poole, Director, Alabama Department of Finance
Propelling UAB, Birmingham and the state of Alabama into the future
Inside the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building, research initiatives will focus on preventing and managing chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and addiction. Cutting-edge disciplines—including data science, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, genomic engineering and laboratory science—will be leveraged alongside expert consultation to develop therapeutic strategies for genetic disorders, including:
- Rare diseases
- Neurodevelopmental conditions
- Cancer
- Diabetes
In addition, the new facility will feature space for computational research, research support, offices, administrative and scientific collaboration as well as meeting areas tailored to the needs of genomic and precision medicine investigators.
“This really is a bold leap forward in our ability to translate scientific discovery into real-world impact. It’s also a catalyst for our region. This building will essentially house dozens of ‘small companies’ that would not be in Alabama if not for UAB and its research engine.
We will be able to attract new talent, increase our competitive advantage in supporting researchers who will in turn bolster our economy and aid in the care of all Alabamians.”
Anupam Agarwal, M.D., Dean of UAB’s Heersink School of Medicine
90+ UAB researchers and their teams will be located in the new facility, with space to recruit an additional 30+ investigators.
“UAB continues to be a cornerstone of Birmingham’s growth and success. This investment will help attract world-class talent, create high-tech jobs, and strengthen our city’s reputation as a destination for innovation and opportunity.”
Mayor Randall Woodfin, City of Birmingham
Excited to learn more about UAB’s new facility? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!
