Salk Institute for Biological Studies

The Salk Institute consists of two parallel octagonal buildings separated by a central courtyard with a water channel flowing toward the Pacific Ocean.

Jonas Salk, creator of the polio vaccine, established the institute in 1960 and collaborated with architect Louis Kahn to complete construction in 1965.

The concrete structure incorporates elements of Roman architectural techniques, featuring clean lines and natural materials that reflect the California coastal environment.

The facility contains three floors of laboratories, individual study areas in separate towers, and subterranean spaces illuminated through large glass panels.

The institute's symmetrical design includes a travertine marble courtyard directing views toward the ocean through a linear water feature.

Location: La Jolla

Inception: 1960

Founders: Jonas Salk

Address: 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037;

Website: https://salk.edu

GPS coordinates: 32.88750,-117.24639

Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:22