Why it matters
The College of Science has invested boldly in its facilities—and the renovated Life Sciences Building is where that investment meets an elevated purpose. The Life Sciences Building will serve as the newest academic and research space for the School of Biological Sciences, in addition to student research space for the expanding Science Research Initiative (SRI).
History of the Life Sciences Building
Located adjacent to Presidents Circle, the Life Sciences Building is one of the original academic buildings on the University of Utah campus. It was originally constructed in the mid‑20th century to house the University’s School of Medicine. Dr. Maxwell M. Windrobe, one of the first physician-scientists at the University, received the first research grant ever awarded by the National Institutes of Health to study muscular dystrophy. This sign of the university’s early excellence in biomedical education and research was the launch point for future discoveries and innovation in health and life sciences at the University.
Building Uses/ Home Departments
The Life Sciences Building will include laboratories for the School of Biological Sciences and will serve as a dynamic hub for undergraduate education and hands-on research. Key features include:
- Dedicated undergraduate research floors purpose-built to support the Science Research Initiative, which places first-year students into real scientific research.
- State-of-the-art, VR-equipped classrooms, opening entirely new dimensions of scientific education, immersive experiences that simply weren't possible on campus before the building’s renovation.
Timeline
- 2017 - Renovation and seismic upgrades began
- 2024 - Interior construction and building finishes
- 2027 - Building completion
“The Life Sciences Building is more than a facility, it is a declaration of the University of Utah’s commitment to scientific leadership.” - Dean Pearl Sandick, College of Science
Do you have questions? Contact us!
Anna Tibbitts | anna.tibbitts@utah.edu