Laboratory and research building for TRON in Mainz

The biopharmaceutical research institute TRON gGmbH (Translational Oncology) is planning a new laboratory and research center for personalized therapies targeting cancer and other serious illnesses on the campus of the University Medical Center in Mainz. The aim of the new building is to offer international researchers the opportunity to advance state-of-the-art technology in close proximity to the university. As part of the architectural and urban design ideas and concept phase, our design was awarded second place.

Urban design
Our design responds to the heterogeneous urban context with a striking, identity-shaping structure that marks the gateway to the emerging campus of Mainz University Medical Center. The building’s rhombic form and open, transparent facade give it a strong visual presence, even from a distance. TRON Plaza, a landscaped public space, will extend between the first and second construction phases.

Energy recycling
The building services concept is based on the KfW 45 low-energy standard and aims to create a climate-positive building. Energy recycling, optimized use of energy flows via a low-temperature heating/cooling system, and a large-scale PV system eliminate all operational emissions, resulting in a net CO₂ sink. The technical systems include a water-to-water heat pump, chillers (mainly using free cooling), and ventilation units with high-efficiency heat recovery and EC motors. A monitoring system enables ongoing control and optimization of energy consumption. All objectives of the EU Green Deal – circular economy, protection of water, environment, and ecosystems, as well as climate resilience and mitigation – were integrated into the concept.

Sustainably striking facade
The louvered facade made of recycled aluminum with integrated PV elements reflects the color palette of neighboring buildings and conveys the building’s research function to the public. On the street-facing side, translucent glass blocks give the structure a distinctive appearance. The recessed ground floor evokes the vertically bisected arches of the local “Gautor” along the green belt promenade.

Space for innovative research
A high-quality working environment with state-of-the-art laboratories and offices, along with daylight-filled communication hubs, fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers. The flexible laboratory system ensures continuous value creation and long-term building performance. Open sightlines and clear orientation are supported by the building’s transparent and accessible design.

TRON (Translational Oncology) is a biopharmaceutical research institute founded by Uğur Şahin, Özlem Türeci, and Christoph Huber, together with Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, University Medical Center Mainz, and the State of Rhineland-Palatinate. In collaboration with BioNTech SE, TRON conducts research into immune-based therapies such as RNA vaccines and cell therapies. The institute serves as a link between academic research, clinical practice, and the pharmaceutical industry.