Birmingham, Alabama, October 23, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has officially opened the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building, a major initiative designed to enhance biomedical research and innovation. This 175,000 square foot facility features cutting-edge technology and is expected to house over 90 researchers focused on critical health issues. The project, backed by a historic $50 million state investment, signifies a vital development for both UAB and the state, aiming to strengthen Alabama’s position in precision medicine.
Birmingham, Alabama – The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has officially launched the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building, a multi-million-dollar initiative aimed at boosting biomedical innovation. Spanning 175,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art facility is located at Seventh Avenue South between 19th and 20th Streets and features a distinctive double-helix architectural design.
The building, which UAB President Ray Watts has described as a “launchpad for discovery,” marks a significant milestone for the university and the state, having received a historic $50 million investment from the State of Alabama. This investment is notable as the largest-ever state funding directed towards a university facility.
Support for the project also came from local entities, including Jefferson County, the City of Birmingham, and the Altec/Styslinger Foundation. The construction of the Altec/Styslinger building includes renovations to the existing Lyons-Harrison Research Building, making it the seventh newly constructed or renovated facility at UAB opened in the past five months.
Research Focus and Capabilities
The new center at UAB will focus its research initiatives on pressing health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and addiction. Researchers within the facility will employ advanced technologies like data science, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, genomic engineering, and laboratory science to drive their research efforts.
UAB is planning to accommodate over 90 researchers, along with their teams, within the new building and has the capacity to add approximately 30 more researchers in the future. This growth not only aims to advance scientific knowledge but also hopes to foster interdisciplinary collaboration between scientists, clinicians, and entrepreneurs.
Facilities and Future Goals
The Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building will also house the Marnix E. Heersink Institute for Biomedical Innovation Conference Center and Kracke Plaza, promoting further engagement and collaboration within the biomedical field. The facility’s overarching objective is to enhance UAB’s and Alabama’s position in precision medicine and data sciences, aspiring to drive innovations that will significantly improve health outcomes both locally and globally.
As part of its strategic vision, UAB aims to attract high-level researchers, which they anticipate could lead to a substantial increase in research funding, estimated to be between $75 million and $85 million. The building’s focus on genomics and precision medicine will play a crucial role in reshaping healthcare practices to better accommodate genetic differences among individuals.
Conclusion
The unveiling of the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building symbolizes a monumental step forward for biomedical research and innovation at UAB. As a vital resource for researchers and health professionals, it is positioned to significantly influence future health strategies and interventions.
FAQs
- What is the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building?
- The Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building is a multi-million-dollar project at UAB designed to enhance biomedical innovation and support cutting-edge research.
- What are the dimensions of the building?
- The building spans 175,000 square feet.
- What was the state investment for the building?
- The project received a historic $50 million investment from the State of Alabama, the largest-ever state investment in a university facility.
- Where is the building located?
- The Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building is located at Seventh Avenue South between 19th and 20th Streets in Birmingham, Alabama.
- What types of research will be conducted in the facility?
- Research initiatives will focus on cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and addiction.
- What technologies will be utilized in the building?
- Key technologies include data science, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, genomic engineering, and lab science.
- How many researchers will the building accommodate?
- The building is expected to house over 90 researchers, with potential recruitment of an additional 30 researchers.
- What is the vision for the building’s impact on healthcare?
- The facility aims to enhance UAB’s and Alabama’s standing in precision medicine and data sciences, driving health innovations locally and worldwide.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Building Name | Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building |
| Project Cost | Multi-million-dollar |
| Size | 175,000 square feet |
| Location | Seventh Avenue South between 19th and 20th Streets, Birmingham, Alabama |
| State Investment | $50 million |
| Research Focus Areas | Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, addiction |
| Technologies Utilized | Data science, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, genomic engineering, lab science |
| Number of Researchers | Over 90, with potential for 30 more |
| Expected Impact | Enhance UAB and Alabama’s precision medicine and data sciences |
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: UAB Opens Multi-Million-Dollar Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building
- Wikipedia: Genomic Medicine
- ABC3340: UAB Unveils State-of-the-Art Genomic Medicine Building
- Google Search: UAB Genomic Medicine
- Bham Now: UAB Opens New Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine Building
- Google Scholar: UAB Genomic Medicine
- Business Alabama: UAB Genomic Medicine Building to Have Lasting Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Genomics
- Bham Now: UAB Receives Approval for $167M in New Major Construction Projects
- Google News: UAB Genomic Building
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
