Barton Malow

Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB)

Michigan State University

In the center of an active university campus lies a highly sophisticated scientific research building that makes groundbreaking advances every day. Due to the ever-changing instruments and required space configurations integral to advancing research, the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) has been one of Barton Malow’s longest-running projects, spanning seven years of continuous construction. This world-class scientific research facility boasts sophisticated and robust structural, mechanical, and electrical systems to accommodate the heavy loads of equipment and data stored within the building.

The project’s scope, outside of the confidential research spaces, consists of many complex building areas, including a 25-megawatt substation, research labs, six stories of office space, and comprehensive security features. 

Our team was challenged throughout the project due to the equipment’s sensitivity and the build’s complexity, as well as navigating multiple major stakeholders. Our team took this in stride, working effectively and efficiently to maintain the project’s integrity and keep the end goal in mind. Our team members had to become experts in the studied sciences to build a facility that operates successfully and productively.