Union Square master developer US2 is in talks to team up with Skanska on the first commercial building in the 2.4 million-square-foot development in Somerville.

The 177,965-square-foot lab building would be located at Somerville Avenue and Prospect Street, part of the first phase of development closest to the planned Union Square station on the MBTA’s Green Line Extension.

Skanska’s expertise in developing life science projects will benefit the development, a US2 executive told The Boston Globe.

A Skanska executive said the company is looking at opportunities in Somerville but no formal agreements have been executed.

“Skanska is always looking for new development opportunities throughout Greater Boston, particularly those which will add value through well-planned, transit-oriented design. Right now there is nothing new to report, however we look forward to exploring future opportunities in the city of Somerville that can further enhance the vitality of the city and its surrounding neighborhoods,” said Charley Leatherbee, executive vice president, in a statement.

Skanska has developed office, lab and residential buildings in the Boston including the 121 Seaport building, which is partially leased to Alexion Pharmaceuticals, and a speculative office building now under construction at 2 Drydock Ave.

The Somerville Redevelopment Authority meets tonight and is scheduled to vote on an approval for the development located on the D-2 block. The first phase also includes a 450-unit apartment building and 607,000-square-foot commercial building.

This report has been updated with a statement by Skanska on the status of its Somerville activity.