Business Details
30 Years
experience
Expert Laboratory Architecture & Design Solutions
Founded in 1996, Health Education & Research Associates specialize in creating innovative laboratory environments for academic, clinical, forensic, government, and R&D sectors. Our team combines architectural expertise with deep scientific understanding to design spaces that enhance productivity and adapt to evolving technologies. With over 25 million square feet of completed projects globally, we are certified as a Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) and Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB). Our approach integrates strategic consulting, process mapping, and sustainability reviews to deliver tailored solutions. Recognized for excellence, we have received multiple awards for design innovation and client collaboration.Our principals bring decades of experience in laboratory planning, ensuring each project aligns with client goals and industry standards. We prioritize safety, flexibility, and cost efficiency while fostering environments that support scientific discovery. Our team includes LEED-certified professionals and subject matter experts in biosafety and vivarium design. Partnering with firms like Harley Ellis Devereaux, we offer integrated services for complex laboratory facilities. Our commitment to continuous improvement drives our exploration of new methodologies and best practices in lab design.
Services
Lab planning
Forensic planning
BSL containment planning
Vivarium planning
Process mapping
Strategic consulting
Equipment planning
Sustainability review
Design documentation
Post-occupancy evaluation
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 28 years of specialized lab design experience across 5 key sectors.
- Our team includes LEED-certified architects and biosafety experts.
- We are certified as a Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) and SDB.
- We integrate proprietary tools like SABER cost modeling and EQ-IPS planning.
- Our award-winning designs prioritize adaptability and operational efficiency.
Services
Lab planning
We create customized laboratory environments optimized for safety, efficiency, and adaptability. Our process integrates workflow analysis, equipment requirements, and future growth considerations. Clients benefit from 28 years of experience in academic, clinical, and R&D settings.
Forensic planning
Specialized design services for forensic laboratories ensure compliance with strict procedural and security standards. Our Crime Lab Design division partners with Harley Ellis Devereaux to deliver globally recognized facilities for evidence processing and analysis.
BSL containment planning
We develop high-containment laboratory spaces meeting BSL-2 to BSL-4 requirements. Our expertise includes airflow systems, decontamination protocols, and secure access controls for research involving hazardous pathogens.
Vivarium planning
Our vivarium designs balance animal welfare standards with research needs. Features include climate-controlled environments, biosecurity measures, and flexible caging systems for pharmaceutical and academic institutions.
Process mapping
We use EQ-IPS and SABER methodologies to visualize and optimize laboratory operations. This data-driven approach identifies inefficiencies and improves specimen flow, staff productivity, and resource allocation.
People
Ken Mohr
President, Laboratory Subject Matter Expert
With over 25 years in lab design, Ken leads HERA's strategic direction. He specializes in integrating scientific needs with architectural solutions for complex research facilities.
Carlos Perez-Rubio
Principal, Laboratory Subject Matter Expert
A LEED-certified architect, Carlos focuses on optimizing clinical and research lab workflows. He has led design teams for NIH and CDC projects across North America.
Amy Tongay
Principal, Laboratory Subject Matter Expert
Amy specializes in government lab projects, navigating federal procurement processes. Her expertise includes vivarium design and biosafety compliance for high-security facilities.
Taisha Griffith
Associate, Laboratory Planner
With 15 years of federal lab experience, Taisha manages academic and clinical projects. She excels in translating technical requirements into functional, future-ready spaces.
Reagan Branham
Chief Marketing Officer
Reagan oversees HERA's business development and client relations. She ensures alignment between market needs and the firm's expanding service offerings in lab design innovation.
Questions
What lab types does HERA specialize in?
We design academic, clinical, forensic, government, and R&D laboratories with expertise in biosafety, vivarium, and forensic facilities.
How does HERA handle complex government projects?
Our team understands federal procurement rules and budget cycles, ensuring compliance while delivering efficient, code-compliant laboratory facilities.
Can HERA assist with lab renovations?
Yes, we provide feasibility studies, process mapping, and retrofit design to modernize existing lab spaces for improved functionality.
What makes HERA's approach unique?
We combine architectural expertise with scientific insight, using proprietary tools like SABER cost modeling and EQ-IPS planning for data-driven solutions.
Does HERA offer international services?
Yes, our forensic planning division has completed projects globally, partnering with firms like Harley Ellis Devereaux for integrated delivery.
How does HERA ensure lab safety?
We incorporate biosafety standards, containment systems, and workflow analysis to create secure environments for staff and research integrity.
