A Translational Approach to Pancreatic Cancer Care & Research

Designed in collaboration with Sachin Agshikar & João Laranjo Arquitectos, the new Botton-Champalimaud Pancreatic Cancer Centre follows a translational methodology to improve the success rate of cancer treatment and, ultimately, the quality of life for those affected by pancreatic disease. To increase operational efficiency and shorten the time required to treat each patient, the vertical circulation of the interior layout unites surgical services, research and clinical trials under one roof, creating a seamless patient experience and enhancing medical professionals’ ability to accelerate the discovery and implementation of novel therapies in pancreatic cancer care.

The design includes a BSL-2-compliant cGMP Gene Therapy Facility, which is split into two zones and consists of two unidirectional ISO 7 processing suites, enabling the institution to produce CAR-T and blood stem cells for Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials. The glass-enclosed processing suites offer views of the public corridor and feature interactive media displays with information about the research and production process of CAR-T and peripheral blood stem cells. The proximity of the labs to inpatient and surgical services has the potential to speed up the time-sensitive process of receiving pancreatic care, which is often delayed when labs and surgical services are in disparate locations.

Through critical adjacencies, high-design concepts that enhance the human experience and advanced medical technology, the new Centre is a leading destination for pancreatic cancer care.