Neuroscience Research Building
SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY
A light-filled atrium spine connects a new lab addition, unifying a science community
In response to evolving needs and changing research emphases, this major addition to the Institute for Human Performance (IHP) is focused on neuroscience. Our design doubles the area of the 1990s-era IHP and is intended to bring together researchers from the new and existing buildings into a single science community focusing on disorders of the central nervous system and the brain.
Our design for the lateral expansion of the IHP is a simple block of research space, connected to the existing building by a linear, skylit atrium around which are clustered conference and break rooms, faculty offices, and shared facilities to improve collaboration.
- Clad in iridescent metal panels that provide color and variety, the new building intentionally contrasts with the brick original building to express its forward-looking program and to distinguish the addition.
- The laboratories are planned to support molecular biology and neuroscience research, comprising both closed and open, wet and dry labs and lab support.
- The new building enhances interaction and sharing of facilities by aligning the new lab floors with the existing lab floors in the original IHP. Plug-and-play movable casework with piped services overhead provide a high level of flexibility.
- A full floor (30,000 SF) vivarium is included, as well as an imaging facility with MRI, PET, and other modalities. The vivarium is supported by a full interstitial space, facilitating service access to all systems without disturbing the animals.
