KU News Release

KU Edwards Campus to dedicate new biology lab tonight

OVERLAND PARK — A new laboratory will allow greater access to research facilities for molecular biosciences students at the University of Kansas’ Edwards Campus.

Officials will dedicate the molecular biology lab at 5:30 p.m. today at the campus’ Regnier Hall, 12600 Quivira Road in Overland Park. William Duncan, president of the Kansas City Area Life Science Institute, will make remarks.

The 1,900-square-foot lab includes a teaching lab, research lab, preparatory area and sterile culture room. It features a BSL2+ designation, which will enable the lab to handle most microbes used in teaching microbiology, pathogenic microbiology and genetics.

“Opening this lab at the KU Edwards Campus signals a new beginning to life sciences education in Johnson County and the region,” said Bob Clark, vice chancellor of the Edwards Campus. “This facility will help prepare our students to be ready to serve the developing workforce demands of existing and emerging molecular biosciences employers in greater Kansas City.”

Lab construction began in April and was completed in time for fall semester classes. Previously, students used lab facilities at Johnson County Community College to complete education requirements.

“On behalf of the Kansas City Area Life Sciences Institute, we are honored to participate in the dedication of the KU Edwards Campus biology lab,” said Duncan. “As an original stakeholder in our organization, KU has been a valuable player in our region’s life sciences initiative. This facility, and the many students it will train for life sciences careers, is another example of KU’s continued commitment to regional life sciences.”

Along with the new lab, the Edwards Campus has added two new lab classes, biochemistry and molecular biology, to the genetics and microbiology labs. Students can access the facility to conduct research during campus hours.

“Most important, the new lab will allow our students to conduct research, which area biotechnology firms consider an important skill,” said Clark. “The KU Edwards Campus lab will benefit life science businesses throughout the metropolitan area.”

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The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.