Charlottesville, Virginia – Skanska Completes Topping Out of $350 Million Biotechnology Facility at UVA
Skanska has achieved a significant milestone in the construction of the $350 million Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology at the University of Virginia (UVA) in Charlottesville, Virginia, by completing the topping out phase on October 6, 2025.
Project Overview
The five-story, approximately 355,809-square-foot facility is designed to support cutting-edge research and education in biotechnology. It will feature modern, flexible laboratory spaces, expanded research facilities, and areas for 100 to 150 researchers and partnering biotechnology companies to foster collaboration in the fields of cellular, gene, and immunotherapies. Construction began in December 2023 and is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2027.
Significance and Impact
The completion of this advanced facility is anticipated to boost local innovation and strengthen Virginia’s biotech sector. By providing state-of-the-art resources for research and development, the institute is expected to attract significant investment and create numerous job opportunities, contributing to the economic growth of the region and the state.
Background
The project received substantial support from philanthropists Paul and Diane Manning, who made a $100 million donation to UVA for the construction of the facility. Additionally, the Commonwealth of Virginia contributed $100 million, and the university allocated $150 million to the project. The facility is located at Fontaine Research Park, a hub dedicated to scientific research, and aims to be the first translational research program of its kind in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Related Developments
In recent developments within Virginia’s biotechnology sector, AstraZeneca broke ground on a $4.5 billion manufacturing facility in Albemarle County on October 9, 2025. This plant is expected to create 600 high-skilled jobs and an additional 3,000 construction-related roles, further bolstering the state’s position in the biotech industry.
Conclusion
The topping out of the Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology marks a significant step forward in advancing biotechnology research and education in Virginia. Upon completion, the facility is poised to play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, attracting investment, and creating jobs, thereby contributing to the economic and scientific advancement of the region and the state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology?
The Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology is a state-of-the-art facility under construction at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia. It is designed to support cutting-edge research and education in biotechnology, featuring modern laboratory spaces and areas for researchers and partnering biotechnology companies to collaborate on cellular, gene, and immunotherapies.
When did construction begin, and when is the facility expected to be completed?
Construction of the facility began in December 2023. The project is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2027.
What is the significance of this facility for Virginia’s biotech sector?
The facility is anticipated to boost local innovation and strengthen Virginia’s biotech sector by providing state-of-the-art resources for research and development. It is expected to attract significant investment and create numerous job opportunities, contributing to the economic growth of the region and the state.
Who funded the construction of the facility?
The project received substantial support from philanthropists Paul and Diane Manning, who made a $100 million donation to the University of Virginia for the construction of the facility. Additionally, the Commonwealth of Virginia contributed $100 million, and the university allocated $150 million to the project.
Where is the facility located?
The facility is located at Fontaine Research Park in Charlottesville, Virginia, a hub dedicated to scientific research.
Key Features of the Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology
Author: VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER
The VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionvanews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Virginia 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 Virginia Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia and the Home Builders Association of Virginia, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Williams Mullen. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
