Complex project management for big science
The complexity of big science infrastructure, frequently initiated by international coalitions of stakeholders, demands meticulous planning and collaboration among specialised design teams.
We know that a collaborative approach is essential to efficiently navigate international and institutional challenges, enabling the successful execution of transformative projects on a global scale.
The technical and project management challenges associated with big science are unique, whether focused on high-energy physics or cosmic observation. These projects involve extensive and complex oversight and project management, often for long periods of time. Teamwork and a pragmatic, practical approach, considering the clients' internal structures and responsibilities, are crucial for success.
We’re also very aware of the challenging and sometimes uncertain nature of big science’s cost and scheduling. Injecting certainty into such projects, given fixed funding allocations, requires a risk-based approach to value management throughout the design process, a strategy Arup is well-equipped to implement.
A former gold mine in South Dakota was selected as the site for the US National Science Foundation’s proposed Deep Underground Science and Engineering Laboratory (DUSEL). The mine consists of an extensive series of drifts and shafts extending deep underground.
As the prime consultant in charge of underground infrastructure and laboratory design, Arup was involved in the project throughout, defining the scope of consultants and helping to develop a work breakdown structure and project management tools. Arup also helped prepare the project schedule for the construction of laboratory levels at 4,850ft and at 7,400ft below ground.
The construction of the facility’s massive caverns at extreme rock depths and pressures also required close coordination between Arup’s structural, geotechnics and tunnelling teams and the cavern excavation design consultant.
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Projects
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Designing high-performance laboratory infrastructure to foster research collaboration
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Grid Storage Launchpad (GSL), USA
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Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery, Australia
State of the art gene bank embodies flexibility and sustainability
International Center for Tropical Agriculture – Future Seeds, Colombia
Big science
Whether you are looking to leverage funding mechanisms, achieve new technical benchmarks, navigate project risks, meet changing regulatory requirements or bring consensus to a diverse group of stakeholders, Arup can help to achieve these goals.