Morgan Sindall has been appointed to build a £60 million Array Multiplex science research building at Granta Park in Cambridge.

The building is being constructed for BioMed Realty Trust, which owns, manages and operates scientific research centre Granta Park.

It will act as the new European headquarters for biomedical company Illumina, a world leader in genomics focused on improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome.

The facility will provide Illumina with a collaborative environment and access to the highly skilled workforce in the dynamic research cluster anchored by Cambridge University.

“Illumina and BioMed Realty’s commitment to building a new state-of-the art facility in Cambridge is great news for our area,” said George Freeman, UK Minister for Life Sciences.

“This is a strong endorsement of the UK’s Life Science Industrial Strategy and leadership in driving forward better treatments for people with cancers and rare diseases.”

Bob Ensch, area director from Morgan Sindall, said: “The building will utilise next-generation ‘smart’ technology and help to ensure the building operates at optimum capacity throughout its lifetime.

“Our project team will draw on knowledge gleaned from its extensive experience delivering world-class research facilities and will be bringing that insight to bear on this development.”

Sustainable features including brise soleil vertical solar shading panels will help to maintain the building’s temperature and prevent overheating. The building will also feature a three-storey winter garden.