Beckman Laser Institute Will Open to Public Today

The Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic, one of the first facilities in the world where the laser will play a primary role in research and medical treatment, will open its doors to the public today.

Located at UC Irvine’s College of Medicine, the 25,000-square-foot building is expected to attract patients from throughout the country for treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease, eye disorders and other ailments. In conjunction with the clinical work, researchers at the institute will continue to develop new and more sophisticated applications for medical laser technology.

Opening ceremonies for UCI’s first on-campus clinical facility will be held from 4 to 7 p.m.

The $6-million laser institute was launched with a $2.5-million gift from the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation and a $1-million gift from SmithKline Beckman Corp. The remaining funds came from businesses and private donors.

Several biomedical firms have formed an affiliated corporate research program to encourage private industry to assist in the development of lasers for biomedical research and clinical treatment.