Salk Institute for Biological Studies

Perched above the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies is a world-leading research center founded by polio vaccine pioneer Jonas Salk. Designed by architect Louis Kahn, the facility is internationally acclaimed for its dramatic brutalist concrete buildings and central travertine plaza bisected by a stream flowing toward the horizon. Guests can explore the campus on scheduled guided architecture tours to admire its symmetrical design and learn about its ongoing scientific breakthroughs.

History

Founded in 1960 by Jonas Salk, the developer of the polio vaccine, the Institute was established to be a cradle of medical and scientific research. Salk envisioned a facility where researchers could work freely across disciplines to tackle complex health problems. The building, completed in 1965, has since been acclaimed for its architectural brilliance and its functionality as a research facility.

Expert notes

• Advance booking for tours is highly recommended.
• Photography is allowed, but tripods require special permission.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the tour.

Features

• Architectural Beauty
• Guided Tours
• Ocean View