A Major Step Forward for Medical Research at Drexel

Dear Members of the Drexel Community,

I am pleased to share an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to strengthen the University's research enterprise and academic mission. We have signed a lease with Gattuso Development Partners for dedicated research space for the College of Medicine within the state-of-the-art facility in University City located at 3201 Cuthbert Street. This strategic investment advances our broader initiative to enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, modernize our research environment and position the University for sustained growth.

This decision reflects years of careful planning and thoughtful evaluation and represents a significant step forward in our long-term campus strategy, which includes consolidating the College of Medicine's Center City and Queen Lane campuses into University City.

In 2023, most of the College of Medicine's administrative and academic functions moved to the Health Sciences Building, creating greater alignment and efficiency. However, key research operations for the College remained divided between the Queen Lane Campus in East Falls and the New College Building in Center City. By bringing our research spaces together in University City, we will create an environment that fosters greater interdisciplinary collaboration, accelerates innovation and strengthens our collective capacity for discovery.

This new facility will better connect researchers with academic colleagues, expand opportunities for students, including undergraduates, and strengthen partnerships with private industry. It represents an investment in the future of the College of Medicine and the University. These steps align with our broader master planning and financial resilience strategy, which focuses on optimizing space and reinvesting in areas that advance our mission.

Plans for the relocation of these research labs and the associated timeline are being developed collaboratively with Gattuso Development Partners. In the coming months, we will share more details.

Thank you for your dedication and partnership as we take this step forward. We are committed to keeping you informed and ensuring a smooth transition that strengthens our community. Together, we are building a future that expands opportunities for research, collaboration and growth across the University.

Sincerely,

Antonio Merlo, PhD
President