Harvard makes ambitious life sciences gamble

FEATURE-Harvard makes ambitious life sciences gamble | Reuters.com

"Nearly four centuries later, Harvard's plans -- which include building a new campus of buildings -- fit well with Massachusetts' desire to rejuvenate its economy by encouraging biotechnology firms to replace the region's long-fading manufacturing base.

"For Boston to survive (it) is by being on the cutting edge of new ideas and technology," said Harvard economics professor Edward Glaeser

Models and drawings of Harvard's new Allston campus, which will eventually spread over 200 acres (80.9 hectares), show Harvard is planning big. The multi-decade effort calls for a new science building, an arts complex, new dormitories and new main buildings for several professional schools now located elsewhere.

And there is little doubt that Harvard, boasting a $28 billion endowment that makes it the world's richest university, has the money to fund it though the cost remains under wraps.

When the science building is finished, 1,000 people will find work in a complex strategically located between the university's main campus and its nearby teaching hospitals, a move Harvard hopes will foster collaboration.