Translational Research Center, 2nd construction phase (TRC II) in Erlangen – CITABLE

The Free State of Bavaria, represented by the State Building Authority Erlangen–Nuremberg, intended to construct an additional research building on the northern campus of the University Hospital Erlangen, directly adjoining the existing Translational Research Center (TRC I). The CITABLE (Center for Immunotherapy, Biophysics & Digital Medicine) was conceived to generate scientific added value through the combination of innovative research approaches in immunotherapy with new concepts in biophysics and digital medicine. The construction of CITABLE made it possible to bring these three research fields together in Erlangen within a unique research facility, thereby creating synergies at the interfaces between the three disciplines.

The main access to the new building is provided via the main entrance of TRC I. In addition, CITABLE can be accessed through a secondary entrance on the west side via the shared forecourt with TRC IV, ZPM, and potentially also TRC III in the future, as well as HUPFLA. The building is essentially divided into two functional areas: laboratory space and office space. This division is emphasized by the solid core positioned between the two uses and by a corresponding architectural design. The central zone of the building accommodates storage areas assigned to the laboratories as well as other dark rooms.

The new CITABLE building is conceived as an extension of TRC I and aligns with the existing building’s heights. A connection is created by means of the bracket-like roof edge element that extends from the west side to the south side. The connection on the east side is also expressed through the continuation of the materiality. Solid exterior wall surfaces are clad with a ventilated rainscreen façade system. The anodized expanded aluminum mesh cassette panels match the existing building in both material and color. Translucent façade elements on the south side reflect architectural design features of TRC IV. All ribbon windows are executed as aluminum unitized curtain wall systems. These are equipped with external sun protection in the form of venetian blinds.