Advancing Neuroscience Through Collaboration
BMJ Architects worked alongside the lead architect to help deliver the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and UK Dementia Research Institute, creating a new home for one of the world’s largest communities of neuroscientists, clinicians and neurological researchers.
The project was driven by a shared ambition to bring research, clinical expertise and specialist facilities together within a single environment capable of accelerating discoveries and improving outcomes for people living with neurological conditions.
From Discovery to Patient Benefit
The development strengthens the connection between laboratory research and patient care. By bringing researchers, clinicians and support services together in one integrated facility, the building supports a more collaborative approach to neuroscience, helping translate scientific discoveries into new treatments, therapies and clinical interventions more quickly.
BMJ’s involvement began at the earliest stages of the project through strategic briefing, masterplanning, and feasibility studies that explored how research and clinical services could continue to operate during the redevelopment of the existing Institute. These studies helped shape the long-term vision for a purpose-built facility capable of supporting future growth in neurological research while maintaining essential services throughout the transition.
Concept and Strategy
A key element of BMJ’s contribution was the design and planning of the Biological Services Unit, one of the specialist research environments at the heart of the Institute. Working closely with end users, BMJ developed highly specialised facilities including behavioural, procedure, surgery and telemetry suites alongside imaging and electrophysiology laboratories. The design carefully balances complex technical requirements, operational efficiency and long-term flexibility, creating infrastructure capable of supporting evolving research programmes and emerging scientific techniques.
BMJ also designed the Outpatients Department and MRI facilities, helping strengthen the relationship between research and clinical care. Advanced imaging, specialist diagnostic facilities and patient-focused environments support closer collaboration between scientists and healthcare professionals, creating opportunities for translational research that can move more rapidly from laboratory investigation to patient benefit.
Explore the Details
A Platform for Discovery and Collaboration
Bringing together more than 500 researchers, clinicians and specialist support staff, the Institute provides a platform for future discovery, collaboration and innovation. Designed to support world-leading neuroscience research while creating a welcoming environment for patients and visitors, the project demonstrates how carefully planned scientific and clinical infrastructure can help accelerate progress in understanding and treating neurological disease.
Sustainability ambitions include BREEAM Excellent, energy-efficient ventilation and heat recovery systems, ensuring the building supports both research excellence and responsible environmental performance.
A New Benchmark for Student Spaces
The refurbishment of Level 5 has transformed the Electrical Engineering Building into a space that students genuinely enjoy using. The Imagine, Innovate, and Learn Labs are more than just classrooms; they’re hubs of creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking.
This refurbishment is a blueprint for the future of teaching spaces within the department. With Levels 3 and 4 set to follow in its footsteps, the Electrical Engineering Building is evolving into a space that reflects the university’s commitment to excellence in education and student experience.
