THE University of Glasgow’s new £118 million ‘flagship’ research facility has been officially opened by Nobel prize winning chemist, Professor Sir David MacMillan.
Built by Multiplex, the learning institute said that the Mazumdar-Shaw Advanced Research Centre (ARC) will be the ‘creative and collaborative heart’ of cross-disciplinary research at the university.
It is named after former students, John Shaw and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, in honour of their civic commitment. They turned their biotech company, Biocon, into one of India’s largest biopharmaceutical firms with a mission of bringing affordable access to a speciality portfolio of medicines. In 2019, they donated $7.5 million to the university to aid the build.
Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Glasgow welcomed guests to an event in the atrium of the new building. Nobel Laureate, Professor Sir David MacMillan, addressed attendees before unveiling a plaque to mark the official opening of the building.
Speaking at the event, Professor Sir MacMillan, said, “I am honoured to open the Mazumdar-Shaw Advanced Research Centre at the University of Glasgow. This truly is a unique and inspiring building, which recognises and reflects the University of Glasgow’s world changing research ambitions.”
Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Glasgow, added, “The Mazumdar-Shaw Advanced Research Centre creates an environment that enables bold and creative research with world-changing potential.
“This would not have been possible without the hard work of all our colleagues who have helped bring the ARC to reality and all the people and organisations who believe in the University of Glasgow’s vision. I would like to thank you all for your support.”
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and John Shaw, commented, “It is our fervent hope that the Mazumdar-Shaw Advanced Research Centre will provide a unique environment that supports the kind of inter-disciplinary, collaborative research that leads to breakthrough and world changing innovations, which will enhance the quality of life and through the betterment of human society.”
