UC Berkeley Breaks Ground on Bakar Labs for Energy + Materials

The University of California, Berkeley broke ground in November of 2025 on the Bakar Labs for Energy + Materials to establish beacon for excellence in entrepreneurship. The 146,000-sf facility will provide world-class wet laboratories and collaboration space for research initiatives and up to 75 early-stage companies. Designed by Gensler to ensure flexibility and adaptability through a reconfigurable framework, the five-story structure will house 3D printing studios, offices, and meeting and conference rooms. Scale-up capabilities will leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning to support start-ups rooted in chemistry, materials science, and rapid instrument prototyping. 

As part of the planned Berkeley Innovation Zone, tenants will benefit from access to an extensive network of local talent, scientific facilities, and commercial partners. The sophisticated facility is expected to integrate diverse sustainability strategies to reduce emissions, including low-carbon construction, passive solar shading, and a rooftop photovoltaic array. A range of event areas for formal and informal use will foster knowledge exchange, including a landscaped courtyard shared with the adjacent IGI-Bakar Labs building.

Turner Construction is the construction manager for the project, working in association with A Squared Project Solutions. Occupancy is anticipated by the end of 2028.