Senior Architectural Designer and Subject Matter Expert, Guergana Barabonkova wakes up in the morning, she begins her day with a strong sense of motivation: “Life sciences architecture is about creating spaces that are functional and efficient while considering the needs of researchers and the environmental impact of the facility,” says Barabonkova. “Our work helps to create an infrastructure that supports cutting-edge research and the development of new technologies. It's what keeps me motivated.”

As an architectural designer, Barabonkova uses her expertise and know-how to come up with ideas for what buildings and spaces should look like. "I chose a career in life sciences architecture because it requires creativity and problem-solving skills. Sort of like how you use Lego to build a house or a castle, but on a much larger, and more complex scale," she says and laughs. 

She probably understates things a bit when she compares her work to playing with Lego. Her professional experience includes building cleanrooms and research and development laboratories as well as viral vector manufacturing facilities, in which gene therapeutics and vaccines are produced.

 

 

"Exyte is very proactive on sustainability and finding solutions."

Originally from Bulgaria, Barabonkova has always worked in the field of health care and life sciences architecture. She has been based in the US for more than 23 years and joined Exyte a year ago.


"The company culture is very special, and I have the opportunity to work in a great environment with great people who are very supportive, and encouraging, and help me grow," she says. For her, flexibility and sustainability are the biggest challenges in life sciences architecture. “Facilities require constant upgrades and renovations to accommodate new research needs and regulatory requirements. We must strive to balance the need for flexibility with functional floor plans,” Barabonkova explains. 


Additionally, due to their energy and water consumption, life science facilities must balance sustainability with practical needs. "This is what I like about Exyte, because we're trying to be very proactive on sustainability and finding solutions."