UCSD Breaks Ground on Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute

UC San Diego broke ground on the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute last week, a facility named for philanthropists Steve and Lisa Altman, who pledged $10 million to construction the 7-story facility. Steve Altman is the vice chairman of Qualcomm. 

“We are thrilled that the Altmans have stepped forward to accelerate a project that has been our dream for many years – to have a special building dedicated to having researchers and clinicians working side by side with patients to address major diseases,” said David A. Brenner, MD, vice chancellor for Health Sciences in an announcement. “Their gift will help us provide personalized care that focuses on using the most advanced technologies to care for San Diegans and people from around the globe.”

The groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday morning was attended by San Diego Mayor Bob Filner, UCSD Vice Chancellor for Health Science Dr. David Brenner, the Altmans and many other university heads.

The $269 million, 359,000-square-foot facility will consist of wet and dry labs, clinical research areas, office space, auditorium and cafe. The research institute is in close proximity to UC San Diego's Thornton Hospital, Moores Cancer Center, Sulpizio Cardiovascular Center and the future Jacobs Medical Center.

Dr. Gary S. Firestein, dean and associate vice chancellor of Translational Medicine, said the facility will create a unique, multidisciplinary environment that will bring together laboratory scientists and clinical investigators to "understand disease, develop new methods of treatment and translate clinical research result into clinical practice."