MJ Research Inc.

Project Summary:
Location:	MJ Bioworks South San Francisco, California
Lab Functions:	Product Development and Testing
Project Scope:	120,000 sq. ft. (3 floors)
Architect:	WHL Architects South San Francisco, California
Laboratory Furnishings and Equipment:	MAX/Lab® Benchtop Uprights Accent™ Flush Overlay Steel Casework SafeAire® Fume Hoods Epoxyn Products worksurfaces

MJ Research, Inc. is a leading developer of biotechnology equipment. The company also performs contract work at the facility, such as DNA sequencing. Due to explosive growth over the last decade, a new facility was built in South San Francisco, California. Labs are found on all three floors of the building.

Two goals were kept in mind during development of the lab spaces: flexibility and aesthetics. Although casework itself is expected to remain static, flexibility of storage and counter space was also considered. Furthermore, the company needed the space to reflect the energetic nature of the company and the work it does. In answer to the flexibility challenge, MAX/Lab Benchtop Uprights were bolted directly to the worksurfaces to provide up to 5' of shelf storage at any single level, giving MJ staff a great deal of flexibility as equipment needs change. The uprights have a capacity of 1,080 lbs. Shelves can be height-adjusted in 1" increments. This above-counter storage system helps to keep work surfaces uncluttered.

The casework is arranged into pods of eight benches per lab area, providing plenty of room to move. Drop-down, sitting-height desk areas with electrical and data jacks for computer use are integrated into each assembly. Sink cabinets are included on some assemblies. Casework color selections complement the blue color schemes of MJ Research products. In keeping with that theme, worksurfaces are blue epoxy resin, matching the colors and patterns of the walls and flooring. For contrast, Accent Flush Overlay Steel Casework with maple door and drawer fronts was selected. Lab areas also incorporate bench-top SafeAire fume hoods, which are required for some applications.