Versiti Blood Research Institute submits expansion plans

Versiti Blood Research Institute recently submitted its expansion plans for local review.

The 79,000-square-foot addition will nearly double the institute’s research capacity.

“Renowned for our innovative and leading research and extensive knowledge of bleeding and clotting disorders, we are now broadening our focus to include blood cancers and immune system diseases,” Versiti CEO Chris Miskel said in a statement. “This initiative signifies a transformative phase where we can make a positive difference in the health and welfare of patients and families, both locally in Milwaukee and globally.”

The project is pending with Wauwatosa’s Design Review Board.

The institute plans to expand its current team of 31 principal scientists to about 50 over the next five to seven years. Each scientist is expected to bring up to 10 colleagues, boosting the ranks of researchers and staff from nearly 200 to more than 350.

Groundbreaking on the $79 million project is expected later this year, with an estimated completion date of 2026. The state’s current capital budget earmarked $10 million for the effort.

This article first appeared in the Wisconsin Health News daily email newsletter. Sign up for your free trial here.