Ragon Institute

The Ragon Institute of Mass General Brigham, MIT, and Harvard was founded in 2009 to unite medical doctors, scientists, and engineers in advancing research on infectious diseases and the human immune system. Fueled by a major philanthropic gift from Terry and Susan Ragon, the Institute’s new 323,000 SF home in Kendall Square—completed in 2024—more than doubles its previous space.

Designed by Payette and located on a triangular site along Main Street, the five-story facility features cutting-edge labs, offices, collaboration areas, a biosafety containment lab, and flexible lecture and auditorium spaces. A soaring atrium with curved walls and a striking helix stair anchors the interior, providing welcoming break-out and collaboration areas.

Acentech collaborated with Payette to provide acoustical and vibration consulting throughout the project. Finish materials were carefully selected to provide appropriate acoustic performance while maintaining refined aesthetics. These efforts help control reverberation to maintain a comfortable environment in the large volume atrium and promote speech intelligibility in meeting and lecture spaces. Acentech’s strategic sound isolation solutions ensure quiet, focused environments throughout the building.

To address potential vibration concerns from nearby subway trains, freight rail, and road traffic, Acentech conducted pre-construction site measurements. Special attention was given to footfall vibration, particularly in sensitive labs located on upper floors. Acentech’s vibration experts evaluated the structural dynamics and provided guidance to ensure sensitive equipment and spaces are able to function without the worry of vibrations interfering with research.