Birmingham, Alabama, October 23, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has opened the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building, a significant investment aimed at enhancing research in precision medicine and data sciences. The 175,000 square-foot facility, funded by a $50 million state investment, features a unique double-helix design and accommodates over 90 researchers. It aims to address chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and addiction, while also acting as an economic catalyst for the region.
Birmingham, Alabama – UAB Unveils New Biomedical Research and Innovation Center
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has officially opened the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building, a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at revolutionizing research into commercial applications and new drugs. The new facility is set to significantly enhance the university’s capabilities in precision medicine and data sciences.
Standing at 175,000 square feet, the building is situated on Seventh Avenue South between 19th and 20th Streets and features a striking double-helix design that symbolizes the fundamental components of life. UAB President Ray Watts referred to the building as a “launchpad for discovery,” emphasizing its role in fostering innovation.
The construction of this cutting-edge facility received a monumental $50 million investment from the State of Alabama, marking it as the largest-ever state investment in a university facility. Additional financial support was provided by Jefferson County, the City of Birmingham, and private donors such as the Altec/Styslinger Foundation.
Facility Features and Research Focus
The Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building includes renovations of the existing Lyons-Harrison Research Building and accommodates seven different research and technical arms of the university. Over 90 researchers and their teams will work within the state-of-the-art facility, with additional space available for more than 30 investigators.
This facility is particularly focused on addressing various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and addiction, employing cutting-edge methods such as data science, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, and genomic engineering.
Economic Impact and Connectivity
The new center is designed to connect UAB’s research enterprise with clinical operations, positioning it at the heart of the medical school, Volker Hall. Its establishment is expected to act as an economic catalyst for both Birmingham and Alabama, contributing to the creation of high-tech jobs and fostering innovation in the region.
This ribbon-cutting ceremony signifies not only a milestone for UAB but also a continued commitment to excellence in biomedical research and innovation. The recent opening of the new building follows the launch of six other renovated or newly constructed facilities on campus in the past five months, signaling a robust investment in the university’s future.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $50 million from the State of Alabama |
| Building Size | 175,000 square feet |
| Design | Double-helix design |
| Research Focus | Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, addiction |
| Research Teams | Over 90 researchers, space for 30+ |
| Location | Seventh Avenue South between 19th and 20th Streets |
FAQ
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 facility at UAB designed to enhance research capabilities in precision medicine and data sciences.
How large is the new building?
The building is 175,000 square feet in size.
What investment supported the construction of the building?
The project received a $50 million investment from the State of Alabama, the largest-ever state investment in a university facility.
What research areas will the facility focus on?
Research initiatives will target chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and addiction.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
NIH Funding Cuts Threaten UAB and State Economy
UAB Faces Funding Cuts Impacting Birmingham’s Economy
UAB Receives $180 Million for Major Renovation Projects
Senator Katie Britt Advocates for Increased Cancer Research Funding
Alabama Secures Major NIH Funding Despite Federal Challenges
Birmingham Secures $2.7 Million for Biotech Companies
University of Alabama System Unveils Major Campus Developments
Birmingham Welcomes New Board Members for Economic Growth
Birmingham Mayor Raises Alarm Over NIH Funding Cuts
Birmingham’s Growing Business Scene with New Openings
Additional Resources
- AL.com: UAB Opens New Genomic Medicine Building
- Bham Now: UAB’s New Genomic Medicine Building
- CBS 42: UAB and Birmingham Mayor on Research Funding
- WVTM 13: NIH Medical Research Cuts Impacting UAB
- Yellowhammer News: Funding for Alabama’s Medical Research
- Wikipedia: Genomic Medicine
- Google Search: UAB Research Funding
- Google Scholar: Genomic Medicine Research
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Genomics
- Google News: UAB Birmingham
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.
