A man with glasses and a beard, wearing a suit, stands in a bright interior space with wooden accents and large windows.

Jim Chen

LEED AP BD+C

Associate Principal, Science and Technology, Houston

Jim’s expertise is unmistakable. A recognized leader in the complexities of biocontainment, vivarium, and diagnostic facilities, he has spent more than 20 years leading laboratory planning and design for some of the industry’s most sensitive and technically demanding projects. Jim acts as Senior Lab Planner for our Houston studio, and his sought-after expertise is frequently tapped across our global practice.

Born in Taiwan, Jim’s upbringing in a dense urban environment instilled both a keen sense of spatial efficiency and an appreciation for disciplined, craft-driven design—an influence that continues to shape his work. He brings this perspective to technically complex facilities where every element must balance stringent safety, operational, and infrastructure demands. His work favors elegant solutions characterized by clear organizational strategies and streamlined circulation, without compromising technical rigor.

Jim is a trusted point of contact for clients ranging from private sector developers to federal agencies. His technical depth, adaptability, and clear communication extend to his mentorship of other staff entering the field of mission critical science and research facilities.

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Architectural building with multiple levels, large glass windows, and landscaped surroundings near water. Captured at dusk, showcasing lighting.

National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility

Jim has delivered multiple landmark projects for state and federal agencies.

A healthcare professional in a lab coat walks through a clinical corridor, pushing a red cart past patient rooms and safety equipment.

LSU Health Shreveport Center for Emerging Viral Threats

This high-containment laboratory can swing between training, research, and full-service diagnostics modes.

Jim Chen presents design plans to colleagues during a meeting, explaining features with gestures in front of visual displays.

Jim has presented on the topic of veterinary diagnostics for audiences ranging from industry experts to federal agencies.

Above all else, I prioritize supporting the client’s mission. This means designing from the perspective of those who operate within highly constrained, pressurized environments—where conditions are uncompromising, safety and performance are essential, and design decisions are continually tested.