Bringing world class facilities including teaching and learning laboratories; the Parkville campus will be transformed by WEBS. It will facilitate better teaching and research through the use of new technology. The project gives the University the opportunity to celebrate the historic elements of the campus particularly the System Garden – which was originally conceived for the teaching of bioscience over 160 years ago.

The design of WEBS Stage 1 is designed to be harmoniously composed into the surrounds of the garden, and its footprint references the garden’s original circular shape. The project will see a new, protected entrance into the garden from Tin Alley side, providing enhanced access for the public. The building will incorporate both a terrace garden and interior plantings, speaking to the history of the site and its present.

WEBS brings together three faculties, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science and the Faculty of Science with the aim of increasing collaboration in the biosciences, while working within world class facilities.

The biological sciences will play a significant role in solving the global challenges of health and food security which include: improving the quality and length of life, better stewardship of essential natural resources, water, energy and global ecosystems and increased productivity of crops, livestock, other foods and natural fibres.

The Western Edge will substantially improve student experience and educational outcomes across the biosciences. Students will enjoy state of the art facilities which are highly shareable; world-class teaching spaces, including ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ practical classrooms will facilitate the benefits of a cross-disciplinary approach to the biosciences, and enable the delivery of a quality curriculum.