Project Overview
These two large-scale research and development buildings, comprising approximately 10,000 sq.m of integrated laboratory and office space, added to the growing portfolio of works carried out by SDC at the Babraham Research Campus.
The campus has undergone significant transformation over the past decade with SDC delivering over 25 projects during this time.
The campus aims to be one of the leading centres for bioscience excellence with an underlying philosophy to cultivate an environment that stimulates effective knowledge exchange and commercialisation.
Originally constructed to shell and core standards (with the fitout following at a later date under a separate contract), R&D 2 are two-storey concrete-framed buildings which provide grow-on space for companies in the life-science sector.
The buildings are rectilinear in form to assist with their function while also aiding flexibility.
The floor plans are divided into three broad zones. At the front is a zone for offices, write-up spaces, and meeting rooms, with laboratory zones at the rear.
Between these zones is a central area that serves as a mixture of the two, containing support spaces such as dark rooms, prep and wash-up rooms, tissue culture rooms, and forth.
The front elevation of each block consists of full height glazing set back within a framework of GRC rainscreen cladding.
This full height glazing is articulated with a series of vertical solar shading fins, which help reduce solar gain and glare.
The rear elevation features linear bands of glazing at each floor level, interspersed with bands of aluminium cladding and enamel-backed opaque glass. These elements combine to achieve the required 1200mm high cill levels in the laboratory areas, allowing for the installation of benching with dado trunking above.
The project also included the development of site infrastructure, such as a main access road, footpaths, lighting, and flood compensation works.
Orestis Tzortzoglou, Senior Development Director, Biomed Realty
“We are delighted with SDC’s performance on the R&D 2 project at Babraham Research Campus. We were particularly pleased with the team’s engagement and continuous support and ability to problem solve throughout the delivery of this complex scheme. Their in-depth knowledge of the sector and understanding of client’s objectives were critical components to the success of the scheme. Quality and safety are essential considerations for us and we are glad that the team exceeded on these metrics. We would highly recommend their services.”
Core Team
Dan Changer
Project Director
After completing a BArch (Hons) Architecture at the University of Cambridge, Dan began his career in architecture in London. During his later Part 3 studies, he worked as an Architect for a London-based architecture firm, contributing to a project at Christ Lane in Cambridge with SDC as the Principle Contractor.
In 2010, Dan became the first Architect employed directly by SDC. Dan emersed himself in the interface between consultant and subcontract design management to ensure efficient design delivery, which became a central part of his role.
One of his early projects was at Moulton College, where he worked as a Design Manager on a sports rehabilitation centre, learning to balance design considerations with practical implementation. This led to further schemes, such as his involvement in the University of Cambridge Sports Centre project which had a complicated roof geometry, necessitating close collaboration with consultants and specialist subcontractor design. It was during this time that Dan formed close partnerships with other members of the SDC team that proved valuable for managing complex projects and delivering results under pressure.
Dan’s work with the University of Cambridge became a defining aspect of his career, with notable projects such as the Maxwell Centre and Judge Business School amongst many others. His background as a Cambridge alumnus has helped foster strong relationships, ensuring that the University receive projects that meet its expectations for quality and functionality.
Known for his problem-solving abilities, Dan frequently tackles architecturally challenging projects. Responsible for the Design department within the company, his approach focuses on planning, collaboration, and ensuring that designs align with the client’s vision. He values the supportive and fair culture at SDC, which has helped cultivate long-term staff loyalty. For Dan, the most rewarding part of his work is seeing the spaces he helps create put to good use and appreciated by clients.
Paddy Leslie
Construction Manager
Simon Morrall
Commercial Manager
Simon is an Estimating Manager at SDC with over 20 years of experience. As an integral member of the site strategy team, his duties and responsibilities include managing the estimating department and preparing estimates and cost planning during the pre-construction and tender phases. For the past decade, he has worked on projects for Trinity College at the Cambridge Science Park, focusing on Science & Technology facilities and complex laboratory refurbishments.
Matt Stevens
Senior Design Manager
Matt has been a part of SDC since 2007 and is an experienced and adaptable Senior Project Design Manager, well-versed in SDC’s collaborative and solution-driven approach. He actively engages in the pre-construction phase and stays involved throughout the project’s completion. With his broad industry experience, Matt excels at uniting the design development process, collaborating closely with both the client’s team and SDC’s internal design team to ensure the original design vision is preserved.
Jonathan Richardson
M&E Manager
After completing his A-Levels in Nottingham, Jonathan pursued an engineering apprenticeship at Leeds College of Building. This block-release programme integrated theoretical study with hands-on experience, enhancing his technical skills and problem-solving abilities. During his apprenticeship, he worked with a national MEP contractor, which gave him valuable industry exposure but ultimately highlighted his preference for a more collaborative and people-focused work environment.
A significant shift in Jonathan’s career occurred when his mentor invited him to join a regional family-owned MEP contractor in Nottingham. The role suited his collaborative working style, but the company later faced financial challenges during a recession, prompting him to explore new opportunities.
Having already collaborated with SDC as a subcontractor, Jonathan’s skills drew the attention of the company’s M&E Director. After his former employer’s closure, he joined SDC and was soon entrusted with leading its newly created M&E self-delivery department. Over 18 months, he assembled a team of professionals with subcontractor expertise, building a department now comprising 20 members, including trainees and project managers. This team operates with a focus on technical excellence and practical problem-solving.
In 2016, SDC supported Jonathan during a challenging period in his personal life. Faced with extensive travel demands and an expanding family, he raised his concerns with the company, which facilitated his relocation closer to its base. This adjustment improved his work-life balance and reinforced his commitment to the company.
Jonathan became a Director in January 2024. In this role, he is responsible for project delivery, tendering, preconstruction, and sustainability efforts, alongside overseeing the MEP department. His contributions have been integral to the successful delivery of complex projects in sectors such as Formula One, including work with clients like Aston Martin and Red Bull. He values the variety and problem-solving aspects of his role and is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within SDC.
David Smeaton
M&E Manager
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
Eddie Somekh
M&E Commercial Manager
Eddie joined SDC in 2013 and is an accomplished construction professional. He has advanced from Quantity Surveyor to Contract Surveyor and now holds the role of Commercial Manager in the Services department. Eddie manages sub-contractor accounts, coordinates project costs, and oversees self-delivery projects from inception to completion. He has a broad range of experience within different sectors, with projects ranging from the construction of student accommodation to state-of-the-art flexible workspace laboratories.
