The Suzanne And Charles Goodman Brain Sciences Building

ELSC’s new home in the 14,000-square-meter [150,000-square-foot] Suzanne and Charles Goodman Brain Sciences Building has been planned specifically to enhance their efforts by providing an outstanding research and teaching facility. With 32 state-of-the-art laboratories, a sophisticated imaging center and designated areas for biological and pre-clinical research, the building reflects an interactive, interdisciplinary approach to brain research. Its flexible floor plans encourage original investigations and interactive collaboration.

Physically, the building acts as a gateway linking the university campus and the city. Public spaces are located at ground level with the laboratories, offices and support facilities on the floors above. Its dynamic social spaces and laboratory facilities are designed to attract exceptional scientists and scholars, as well as foster interest in the Center’s research activities within the wider community.

The building enjoys the most advanced environmental strategies to reduce energy use naturally. The building is orientated east-west to reduce solar heat gain and local materials, such as Jerusalem stone, are utilized where possible. The upper three levels are shaded by a perforated metal screen, embossed with a pattern derived from the neurological brain structure.

Foster + Partners, the world-renowned British architectural firm, along with the Jerusalem firm of Baer, Shifman-Nathan Architects, designed the imaginative four-story building that blends traditional local architecture with cutting-edge facilities. ELSC’s new home is distinguished by two wings surrounding an open courtyard and by its unusual façade inspired by Santiago Ramón y Cajal, an early pioneer in neuron theory.