Drexel University signs landmark lease totaling 150,741 s/f at 3201 Cuthbert Street

Next-generation research space anchors University City Innovation Corridor

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Drexel University has signed a landmark lease selecting Gattuso Development Partners’ and Vigilant Holdings’ best-in-class life science development, 3201 Cuthbert St., as the future home for its medical research and laboratory operations. The long-term lease agreement, which encompasses four floors totaling 150,741 s/f, marks a transformative step that will bring the entirety of research operations for the Drexel University College of Medicine to University City.

“This is a defining moment not only for Drexel’s College of Medicine, but for University City and Philadelphia’s life sciences future,” said John Gattuso, president and CEO of Gattuso Development Partners. “Welcoming Drexel University College of Medicine to 3201 Cuthbert St. underscores the vision behind this building, to create a next-generation research environment that attracts world-class institutions, fuels innovation, and delivers long-term economic impact for the city.”

Designed to meet the evolving needs of modern biomedical research, 3201 Cuthbert St. is a purpose-built life sciences facility offering flexible, high-performance laboratory, research and production space within a highly connected academic and innovation corridor. The building achieved a major construction milestone this month with the completion of its core and shell, representing a significant step toward delivery of one of Philadelphia’s most anticipated life sciences projects.

For Drexel, the new space supports a broader long-term campus and research strategy focused on strengthening its research enterprise, modernizing facilities, and enhancing collaboration across disciplines.

“This agreement reflects a deliberate, long-term investment in Drexel’s future as a leading research university,” said Antonio Merlo, PhD, president of Drexel University. “3201 Cuthbert Street offers the scale, design, and University City location necessary to support advanced medical research and to thoughtfully align our research footprint with the academic core of the University. It is a strategic campus decision that strengthens our institutional foundation and positions Drexel for sustained growth and impact.”

The decision represents a significant advancement for academic medicine, research, and the life sciences ecosystem in Philadelphia, placing Drexel’s researchers in immediate proximity to the University’s academic core and to one of the nation’s most robust innovation districts. The move will consolidate Drexel University College of Medicine research functions previously located in Center City and East Falls..

“Bringing our research spaces together in University City will meaningfully strengthen our ability to collaborate, innovate, and translate discovery into impact,” said Charles Cairns, MD, Dean of Drexel University College of Medicine. “This investment allows us to better connect our researchers with colleagues and students, expand opportunities for interdisciplinary work, and deepen partnerships with industry.

Beyond its scientific and economic significance, 3201 Cuthbert St. also stands as an important architectural icon. The building was designed by RAMSA (Robert A.M. Stern Architects), the firm founded by the late Robert A.M. Stern. The project embodies RAMSA’s commitment to timeless, contextually grounded design.

The fit-out of Drexel University College of Medicine’s new space is anticipated for completion in Q2 2027.