Promoting research and discovery, the Life and Mind Building at the University of Oxford embodies the increasingly collaborative nature of modern science—bringing the psychological and biological sciences together within a more integrated, space-efficient environment that encourages connection across departments and with the community. Open, light-filled spaces invite public engagement, while shared research, teaching and study environments make more effective use of space, ensuring Oxford's investment continues to advance learning and discovery for decades to come.
As the University of Oxford's largest-ever construction project—and the UK’s largest laboratory designed to Passivhaus principles—the Life and Mind Building sets a new standard for efficiency and adaptability. Flexible laboratory platforms and shared facilities support multiple research types within a compact footprint, allowing the building to evolve over time while maximizing long-term value and sustainable performance.
The interior spaces offer flexible and specialist bio-science laboratories and research areas as well as office space, and a terraced office wing which optimizes access to views, light, and nature and is suitable for dry-labs and collaborative work. The flexible design frees the nearby plant science building, providing valuable swing space for future campus planning while allowing other parts of the site to be converted into public space.