Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health

As the largest integrated brain centre in Canada, the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health is where groundbreaking discoveries take shape, rebuilding the boundaries of brain health through research, education, & treatment.

he 6-storey building is the result of a dynamic partnership between UBC Faculty of Medicine and Vancouver Coastal Health.

Photo by Don Erhardt + UBC Marketing

Made possible through generous donations from the Djavad Mowafaghian Foundation, other philanthropists and leaders, as well as those of the federal and provincial governments, it is a vision of excellence. The Centre is inspired by the concept of a synapse, and combines translational research with patient-centered care, aiming to prevent, understand, and treat brain dysfunction. Connected by an open-concept central atrium with an exterior of glass fritted with a pattern of neurons, the project comprises two interlocking boxes: the lower levels contain clinical areas and the upper with research, while the middle floor includes shared offices and meeting spaces. A basement level contains a lecture theatre and a state-of-the-art brain imaging facility. These spaces are connected to UBC Hospital through a ground-level tunnel and a sky bridge.

Built with sustainability in mind, the Centre is 50% more energy efficient than other buildings, LEED Gold certified, and contains a green roof. It seamlessly integrates the Brain Research Centre, Institute for Mental Health, Psychiatry, and Neurology facilities.