Ludwig Maximilians University Munich – Institute of Chemical Epigenetics (ICE-M)

The high-tech campus of the Ludwig Maximilians University Munich in Großhadern/Martinsried has been extended by a new research building, the Institute for Chemical Epigenetics Munich (ICE-M). The new construction is located in the immediate vicinity of scientific and medical facilities. Together with the BioSysM research building, it forms an impressive start to the research landscape of the Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy at the north-western entrance.

Research at the Institute of Chemical Epigenetics aims to elucidate the functions of DNA and RNA bases in cells and to decipher epigenetic programming. Scientists are chiefly concerned with stem cell research and therapy.

The main entrance of the 5-story compact structure with its rectangular floor plan and rounded corners is marked by a recess in the north-west, creating a covered reception area. A generous glazed foyer serves as a place for scientific communication as well as an entrance lounge.

The floor plan of the research building is divided into three areas: a central block, a west side and an east side. The ground floor or the compact central block accommodates laboratories and a conference room for events. Large double labs with adjoining evaluation work area are located on the upper floors. These are separated from the other labs in the north by a dark zone. Administrative areas with offices, computer rooms and smaller laboratory units can be found on the west and east sides of the institute building, separated from the central block by the foyer in the west and the corridor in the east.
The mechanical equipment room, the vibration-sensitive TEM microscope labs and other microscopy labs are located in the first basement.

The facade is structured by horizontal banding consisting of white composite glass panels, creating an interplay between closed areas and continuous window surfaces and a glazed ground floor. A recessed technical structure on the 4th floor is clad with a continuous uniform curtain facade of horizontal, dark aluminum louvers.