The Challenge
The University of Cambridge’s Department of Oncology — Early Cancer Institute needed to relocate laboratory facilities during a major building refurbishment programme. The project presented several significant challenges:
- Ongoing research could not be interrupted — the department’s cancer research programme had to continue throughout the relocation
- Temperature-sensitive equipment including ultra-low freezers containing irreplaceable biological samples
- Phased timeline required precise coordination across multiple stages from October to December 2024
- Campus access constraints with specific delivery windows and route restrictions
Our Approach
Working closely with the department’s facilities team, we developed a detailed phased relocation plan:
Phase 1: Assessment & Planning
- Comprehensive site survey of both origin and destination facilities
- Detailed inventory of all equipment with specific handling requirements
- Risk assessment covering cold chain, access routes, and timing
- Coordination with university estates for access and parking
Phase 2: Non-Critical Items
- Office furniture, storage units, and archived materials moved first
- Minimal disruption to ongoing laboratory operations
- New facility prepared for incoming equipment
Phase 3: Laboratory Equipment
- General laboratory equipment, fume hoods, and benches relocated
- Specialist handling equipment deployed for heavy and sensitive items
- Continuous communication with research staff on timing
Phase 4: Critical Equipment
- Ultra-low freezers and cold chain equipment moved last
- Continuous temperature monitoring throughout transit
- Equipment installed and verified at target temperature before sign-off
The Result
The entire phased relocation was completed on schedule across the October–December 2024 window. Key outcomes:
- Zero cold chain breaches — all temperature-sensitive equipment maintained integrity throughout
- Minimal research disruption — phased approach allowed ongoing work to continue
- On time, on budget — every phase completed within the agreed schedule and cost
- Full documentation — complete audit trail and handover documentation provided
The project demonstrated our deep understanding of Cambridge’s academic environment and our ability to work within the specific constraints of university facilities management.