Brookhaven National Laboratory Science and User Support Center

Across the country, research institutions are rethinking how their campuses engage with the public, industry, and academic partners. Historically insular environments are evolving into more open, collaborative ecosystems that foster innovation and economic development. Aging infrastructure and dispersed facilities compound the challenge, limiting efficiency and the user experience. For Brookhaven National Laboratory — one of the nation’s premier research institutions — the moment called for a facility that could serve as a catalyst for interdisciplinary work and a gateway to attract global talent.

The Science and User Support Center consolidates 75,000 square feet of conferencing, visitor processing, and workplace functions into a single facility anchored by a central lobby. The building features a connected mezzanine workplace and flexible conference environments designed to encourage interaction. The building massing and design of the façade is multifunctional, facilitating transparency and welcoming civic presence, while controlling daylight and energy performance. Conceived as both gateway and catalyst, the building aligns architecture, experience, and environmental intelligence to support a global community of scientists while setting the stage for the future Discovery Park campus.

The center transforms the arrival experience for scientists and visitors, replacing a fragmented process with a seamless, one-stop destination. By consolidating operations from scattered outdated facilities, it improves efficiency, enhances collaboration, and reduces the campus’ energy footprint. As the first completed building within the emerging Discovery Park campus, it anchors future development and signals Brookhaven’s evolution toward greater openness, collaboration, and engagement. For the thousands of scientists, staff, and visitors it serves, the building transforms arrival into an inspiring experience.