The John Edward Porter Neuroscience Research Center

More than a decade ago, neuroscience leaders at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) foresaw the need to catalyze collaboration across the many diverse subfields of brain research. Their vision gave rise to the concept of a new type of research facility, one that would unite neuroscience research across the NIH. At the time, neuroscientists in NIH’s intramural research program were located in at least eight different buildings. Congress embraced this bold vision, and, in 2000, provided funds to create a national neuroscience research center on NIH’s Bethesda, MD, campus that would bear the name of a longtime champion for biomedical research, Congressman John Edward Porter. Every aspect of this 500,000 square foot, state-of-the-art complex speaks to the ingenuity and wisdom of its distinguished namesake — from the interactive labs and shared resource spaces to the innovative features that make it one of the world’s most energy-efficient life science facilities.

The John Edward Porter Neuroscience Research Center is the home for 85 groups, encompassing more than 800 scientists. Within these walls, through wide-ranging studies exploring everything from genetics to behavior, these creative minds will seek to unlock the mysteries of the nervous system in health and disease. Through their efforts, this center will serve as a premier institution for brain research, as well as forge a new model for the collaborative conduct of biomedical research across the country and around the globe.