The Monell Chemical Senses Center and Wexford Science & Technology today announced that Monell has signed a 20-year lease to relocate and expand its operations from Market Street in University City to nearby One uCity, the newest research facility in uCity Square. The relocation reaffirms Monell’s long-term commitment to University City and marks a significant milestone in its history as the organization moves into its next era of sensory science discovery after more than 57 years at its current home.

More than a relocation, the move represents a major investment in Monell’s future in University City and in Philadelphia’s broader life sciences economy. By remaining in University City and expanding into a purpose-built environment at One uCity, Monell is creating a one-of-a-kind, world-class home for sensory science, designed to support growth of its research enterprise, attract leading scientific talent, and open new opportunities for innovation and collaboration in Philadelphia. The total facility will have infrastructure and improvements valued at over $30 million.

Founded in 1968, Monell is the world’s only independent, nonprofit research institute dedicated to the scientific understanding of taste and smell. For decades, Monell scientists have been globally recognized leaders in advancing our understanding of taste, smell, and related senses and their impact on human health and well-being.

“This move represents an exciting new chapter for Monell as we build upon our legacy of scientific excellence and position ourselves for the future,” said Benjamin P.C. Smith, PhD, Executive Director & President at Monell.  “Our new facility will strengthen Monell’s ability to advance groundbreaking science, attract top talent, and drive health breakthroughs that improve lives around the world.”

More than 150 scientists and administrative and operations staff at Monell will occupy approximately 64,000 square feet across three floors at One uCity (25 N. 38th Street), with a planned opening in early 2027. The new space will provide Monell with world-class facilities supporting its mission to advance sensory science through interdisciplinary collaboration and discovery science.

Developed by Wexford Science & Technology, in partnership with the University City Science Center, One uCity is a state-of-the-art 400,000 square foot, 13-story lab and office building designed to foster connection among leading companies, research institutions, entrepreneurs, and innovators working at the intersection of science, technology, and community. Monell will join Century Therapeutics (NASDAQ: IPSC), Dispatch Bio, Exponent (NASDAQ: EXPO), Integral Molecular, Penn Institute for RNA Innovation, Penn’s Center for Precision Engineering for Health (CPE4H), and Penn NSF AIRFoundry in the building. With Monell’s commitment, One uCity is approximately 90% leased and continues to attract leading companies and institutions from across the life sciences ecosystem.

“We are honored that Monell has chosen to stay and grow within uCity Square as it looks towards its next chapter of scientific excellence,” said Pete Cramer, Vice President and Market Executive at Wexford Science & Technology. “Monell has been and continues to be an anchor within Philadelphia’s innovation ecosystem, leading research that has transformed our understanding of taste, smell, and health around the world.”

Philadelphia City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier welcomed the announcement as another example of University City’s continued momentum.

“Monell has been an integral part of the fabric of University City’s life sciences community for close to 60 years. I am thrilled that this institute that focuses on our senses which connect us to the world and a healthier future has chosen to remain in University City as it embarks on this exciting new chapter,” said Councilmember Gauthier. “This investment reinforces the Third Council District’s role as a global hub for research and innovation while supporting the jobs, institutions, investment in our youth, and partnerships that strengthen our neighborhoods and our city.”

From uncovering the biological basis of taste and smell to driving innovations related to nutrition, aging, disease, and quality of life, Monell’s research has shaped scientific understanding around the world, including during the COVID-19 pandemic when many experienced a loss of smell related to the virus. Its relocation reflects both the institute’s continued evolution in scientific research and its enduring investment in Philadelphia, University City, and uCity Square.

Anthony Pell of CBRE’s Life Sciences Advisory Group represented Monell in the lease transaction. CBRE will be formally listing Monell’s current research facilities at 3500 and 3508 Market Street for sale. Interested parties should contact Bruer Kershner at CBRE for more information.

Download PDF