“Vivarium supported research and discovery – Supportive Building Systems and Operation"

Ken Sheehan, AIA, LEED AP, Architectural Alliance
Jay Denny, University of Minnesota, Facilities Management

Vivarium based research is integral to Cardiovascular and Cancer research programs. They require the support of energy intensive mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems that operate 24/7 and must be maintained with minimal disruption to the research. BDD and its vivarium are examples of energy management in practice which concurrently maintain stringent protocols for good science. The spaces were designed to allow on-going research and necessary maintenance to co-exist, while achieving energy savings. Major systems strategies discussed will include heat recovery systems in the general exhaust and fume hoods, exhaust discharge rates and fan energy, and turn down strategies for biosafety cabinets. Operational and maintenance considerations will be addressed, including expanded commissioning and user training. Ken Sheehan will discuss objectives for vivarium and building systems, operations design, and their integration into the project. Jay Denny will give an overview of the University's goals to reduce energy consumption within science buildings, with specific examples from BDD regarding energy conservation and optimized system design to reduce on-going maintenance and operations cost. The session will conclude with lessons learned from the process.

Biographies:

Ken Sheehan is a Principal and the Public Studio Leader at Architectural Alliance. He has been with the company since 1996 where he has provided design and project leadership through all aspects of project delivery from programming through construction administration. He is instrumental in securing and delivering projects at the University of Minnesota, including the recently completed Biomedical Discovery District (BDD) Phase II project. His is currently focused on managing the design of high performance science buildings. He graduated Magna Cum-Laude with a BA in Architecture from Kansas State University with over 18 years of experience. He is currently designated LEED AP in Building Design and Construction.

Jay Denny serves as the Principal Mechanical Engineer for the University of Minnesota's energy, and facilities management team. The Facility Management department oversees the operations and maintenance of more than 250 buildings, with an energy budget of over $90 million annually. Denny offers outstanding leadership in assessing system design and providing input on the operations and energy savings strategies during the design, construction, and operations of building on campus. He provides guidance on systems ranging in scale from central steam and campus utilities to detailed lab systems and equipment. In addition, he serves as the commissioning agent for the University's most complicated and challenging projects. Jay brings years of practical hands on experience in the operations and maintenance of science research and animal holding facilities. In 2010, Jay received the prestigious President's Award for outstanding service.

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