Innovative lab launch signals new era for science studies at Algonquin College

Posted on Wednesday, August 27th, 2025

In its efforts to provide top-tier science education, Algonquin College has developed new state-of-the-art lab facilities designed to foster exciting opportunities for applied research and practical, industry-relevant learning.

These new science labs will feature more than 20,000 square feet of lab space and a wide range of cutting-edge, industry-standard equipment. This new development will replace the College’s currently overstretched lab space and will lead to the creation of eight new labs, including:

  • Three new Biosafety Level 2 labs
  • Two new Chemistry labs
  • One new Analytical Instrumentation lab
  • One new Applied Research lab equipped to support projects in the bio sciences
  • One new Applied Research lab equipped to support projects in environmental monitoring

The decision to develop these labs was made in alignment with the 2023-2029 Academic Plan and is based on the College’s commitments to “deliver an industry-driven polytechnic education that develops employability and career growth.” According to Sandra Brancatelli, Dean, School of Advanced Technology, this new lab space will go a long way to not only improve the experience of students but also serve as a massive asset to the College’s partners, as well.

“Using these new spaces and the latest equipment will allow students to be familiar with the lab environments that they’ll be going to when they graduate,” said Brancatelli. “They’ll be able to hit the ground running faster, which is of benefit to the graduates and the industry partners.”

The professional research capacity provided by these new labs will allow the College to continue and expand its partnerships throughout the Ottawa area, providing research opportunities in everything from genetic testing and bio-health to urban farming practices and culinary science, with many more research possibilities on the horizon.

“On the research side, we see a strong opportunity to collaborate with companies looking to develop and advance their technologies,” said Philip Dawe, Director, Applied Research. “Many organizations are eager to partner with colleges, and our lab offers a unique environment to support that. Companies can access our state-of-the-art space and equipment, and we can also work together to leverage government funding for innovative, results-driven projects. It’s a model that delivers real value while accelerating innovation.”

The expected cost for this new development is up to $17.5 million as outlined in the June 2024 Board of Governors meeting. The majority of construction activities are expected to be completed by the end of August, with some ancillary works continuing into September. The labs will be available for use in College programming during the Fall 2025 semester. In addition to this new construction and tech elements of the new space, there are also plans to continue the College’s Indigenization practice throughout the design elements of the science labs, which will include two murals created by artist Shalak Attack, who previously painted the three-storey mural outside of Nawapon.

“The College is making these significant investments because we appreciate and understand how modern facilities support the student experience and how that will in turn help our graduates meet the needs of industry,” said Mark Savenkoff, Vice President, Advancement and Strategy.

“To the benefit of our students, [we need] to make sure that we’re investing in programs, in spaces, in services and in things like labs to support their success and their employability.”


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