Hammes Unveils the New Moffitt Discovery and Innovation Center, Advancing Cancer Research
Hammes Unveils the Moffitt Discovery and Innovation Center
On October 22, 2026, Hammes, a leading firm in real estate development and management, proudly conducted the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Moffitt Discovery and Innovation Center, located at the Speros facility in Land O' Lakes, Florida. This state-of-the-art, 250,000-square-foot research center signifies a significant enhancement in the capabilities of the Moffitt Cancer Center, particularly within the realm of cancer research.
The Discovery and Innovation Center is not just another medical building; rather, it is thoughtfully designed to foster collaboration among various research disciplines. Its primary objective is to propel promising scientific breakthroughs towards practical applications in cancer treatment. To achieve this, the facility boasts flexible laboratory environments, shared technological and equipment spaces, and collaborative areas specifically tailored for the investigation of tumor biology, drug discovery, chemistry, bioengineering, and cancer metabolism. By the end of 2026, it is anticipated that the center will accommodate 20 faculty laboratories alongside approximately 250 researchers.
Wade Milligan, Regional Vice President of Hammes Healthcare, highlighted the complexities involved in executing this project, stating, "This research project required a level of coordination beyond a traditional medical facility. We had a tremendous team in place and are grateful to Moffitt Cancer Center for their partnership, as well as our project partners for their vital roles in completing this landmark facility on time and within budget."
The Moffitt Discovery and Innovation Center is strategically situated next to another remarkable facility known as the Moffitt at Speros Outpatient Center, which encompasses the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Proton Center. Hammes played a crucial role in managing project operations for this outpatient center, which had its doors open to patients earlier this year.
Founded in 1991, Hammes has established itself as a fully integrated real estate solutions platform, particularly focused on healthcare. The firm excels in strategic planning, project management, development, investment, and property management, earning its reputation as a premier healthcare developer over 28 consecutive years, according to Modern Healthcare's Construction & Design Survey. Hammes has been recognized as the top developer for 22 of those years and has expanded its services through a robust network of regional offices across the United States.
The unveiling of the Moffitt Discovery and Innovation Center marks another milestone in Hammes’ long history of significant contributions to healthcare real estate. As they continue to shape the landscape of health-related facilities, this newly opened center is poised to play a pivotal role in the ongoing battle against cancer.