HDR Expands Science Capability With Appointment of Kerrie Russell
HDR has strengthened its laboratory and research facility design capability with the appointment of Kerrie Russell as senior project architect. Russell brings deep expertise in the design of cutting-edge laboratory and research environments across health, education, defence and advanced technologies.
Russell’s understanding of laboratory typologies — recognising that no two labs are alike — shapes her approach to science facility design. She sees these environments increasingly positioned at the intersection of research, innovation, health technology, education and defence. “This convergence is redefining how laboratories function, demanding adaptable, cross-disciplinary spaces that support evolving scientific frontiers,” she said.
“I’m thrilled to join HDR, where the depth of expertise across science, health, education and defence projects, both locally and globally, offers an incredible platform to deliver resilient, innovative facilities.”
Russell began studying visual arts while working in pathology laboratories, a combination that shaped her meticulous approach to craft. Her eight years spent restoring motion picture film at the National Film and Sound Archive further honed her precision and problem-solving skills.
“Russell’s ability to combine complex stakeholder management and technical rigour with creative design thinking makes her an exceptional leader in the laboratory design sector,” said Graeme Spencer, education and science principal at HDR. “Her expertise will be invaluable in delivering facilities that advance research, foster collaboration, and support HDR’s commitment to innovation across complex scientific, research and educational environments.”
Russell sees commercial laboratories increasingly driving innovation alongside traditional education and government facilities. She highlights opportunities to retrofit labs into nontraditional typologies such as offices, and the growing convergence of defence science with agriculture and other sectors — underscoring the need for flexible, cross-disciplinary design that responds to emerging technologies and community needs.
Passionate about mentoring the next generation of women in STEM, Russell believes research facilities are becoming more dynamic, inclusive and creative spaces where design directly enables discovery, innovation and societal impact.
“Research facilities are far more than buildings — they’re launchpads for discovery,” Russell said. “I envision spaces alive with innovation: lasers, telescopes, robotics and breakthroughs in energy, agriculture and medicine. These environments support the pursuit of solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing challenges.”
