Clinical Research Laboratories

As clinical research programs continue to evolve within federal healthcare environments, research facilities must support increasingly sophisticated laboratory infrastructure, equipment demands, and operational flexibility. At the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, Above Group provided engineering design services for the renovation of approximately 16,000 SF of clinical research laboratory space supporting modernized research operations and upgraded building systems.

The project focused on improving laboratory functionality, system reliability, and long-term maintainability while integrating new HVAC, electrical, lighting, and infrastructure systems into the active healthcare campus environment.

Because laboratory environments require precise environmental control, equipment coordination, and reliable power distribution, Above Group’s multidisciplinary engineering approach prioritized operational continuity, code compliance, and adaptable infrastructure capable of supporting evolving clinical research needs.

The renovation also included arc flash studies, LED lighting modernization, and system coordination supporting safe and efficient laboratory operations within an occupied VA medical facility.

Key Engineering Features

• Clinical laboratory renovation and modernization
• HVAC systems supporting laboratory environments
• Arc flash analysis and electrical coordination
• LED lighting upgrades
• Infrastructure integration with existing campus systems
• Modernized power and building systems

Project Challenges

• Renovating laboratory space within an active healthcare environment
• Coordinating infrastructure upgrades around ongoing operations
• Supporting evolving research equipment and power requirements
• Integrating modern systems into existing campus infrastructure

Results

• Modernized clinical research laboratory environment
• Improved operational reliability and infrastructure performance
• Enhanced energy efficiency through lighting upgrades
• Upgraded electrical safety and system coordination
• Flexible infrastructure supporting long-term research operations