IBEN: A READY-TO-USE LAB AND OFFICE BUILDING FOR CUTTING-EDGE COMPANIES
IBEN is the new science institute developed by Eiffage Immobilier, designed by the world-renowed architect Rudy Ricciotti in collaboration with the neurobiologist Yehezkel Ben-Ari, who lends his name to this new center.
A Need
Marseille currently lacks high-tech facilities capable of hosting companies graduating from incubators or entering more advanced stages of growth.
A Concept
This project aims to create a place where science meets entrepreneurship. Its purpose is to provide start-ups with an environment that fosters innovation, directly connected to academic research and local expertise.
A Project
The initiative is to establish an exceptional facility within a unique natural setting, between the sea and the hills. Designed to be both a pleasant place to live and an inspiring workplace, its ambition is to attract, nurture, and grow talent.
A Solution
IBEN is built on the idea of offering a complete and stimulating ecosystem: shared spaces, ready-to-use laboratories, an agora, a cafeteria, shared meeting rooms, and even a permanent art exhibition—all enriching the user experience.
IBEN is a four-story modular facility combining laboratories and offices (2/3 labs, 1/3 offices) covering 6,430 m², and will include:
GROUND FLOOR:
An Agora space
The agora is the heart of the building, featuring shared spaces, meeting and videoconference rooms, a collaborative business center, and essential research support services (laundry, sterilization, large storage areas).
It also offers welcoming social and dining areas, along with a dedicated wellness space.
1st & 2nd floors:
“Plug and play” laboratories
- Private, modular labs operating in adjacent units that can be combined. Suitable for molecular biology labs with L1 and L2 facilities, benches, fume hoods, storage areas…
- Private offices directly connected to labs.
- Shared meeting rooms, break areas, etc.
3rd & 4th floors:
“Tailor-made” laboratories
Customizable spaces designed for companies requiring more than 300 m², offered as turnkey projects.
IBEN is exemplary in terms of environmental standards, targeting dual RE 2020 and BREEAM “Excellent” certifications.
IBEN is designed around a business-friendly model with three key commitments:
Exceptionally competitive rents, among the lowest in France.
Flexible options, tailored in terms of surface area, equipment, and services.
Customized contracts, adapted to the stage of development of each company.
3 QUESTIONS FOR YEHEZKEL BEN-ARI
A renowned researcher in neurobiology and now leader of start-ups at the forefront of biomedical data analysis and pioneering therapies for autism and brain tumors, Yehezkel Ben-Ari shares his vision for a project he has been championing for years:
Why is this project unique?
In nearly 40 years of academic career, I’ve always embraced cross-disciplinary approaches, thinking outside the box. This has led to some major discoveries in my field. The IBEN project follows the same philosophy.
Why an institute dedicated to start-ups in Luminy?
I have already created INSERM’s flagship neuroscience institute (INMED) in Luminy and witnessed the incredible diversity of expertise here. At the same time, I saw the lack of collaboration between academia and start-up-driven innovation—yet this is the only way to transform knowledge into applications that truly benefit patients.
What does IBEN offer in particular?
IBEN will provide working conditions that spark innovation, thanks to close proximity with experts from different fields who all share a passion for discovery. This kind of environment fosters unexpected, groundbreaking breakthroughs.
Interested ?
For more information, contact Céline HUBERT using the form below:
