The Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology's (IMET) joint University System of Maryland research institute, formally the University of Maryland Baltimore's Columbus Center of Marine Biotechnology, utilizes the research, training and technology transfer capabilities of their partner institutes to further its mission. IMET builds on the assets and capabilities of the former Center of Marine Biotechnology.

Located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the building houses marine biology laboratories, marine archaeology research facilities for aquaculture, marine environmental study, microbial and extremophile biotechnologies, functional genomics, and a multi-level exhibition center. The building also contains research laboratories, administrative offices, an auditorium, multiple exhibition spaces and structured underground parking for 400 passenger cars.

As local consultants to Toronto-based Zeidler Roberts Partnership, Penza Bailey Architects bore the sole responsibility for writing the complete construction specifications, incorporating all science laboratory furniture and casework, fume hoods, cold rooms, dark rooms, prep rooms, and mission critical equipment controls, and analysis and documentation to ensure that the facility met all building, ADA accessibility and life safety codes.