The Wisconsin Idea

Collaboration at the Discovery Building

Where the Wisconsin Idea Thrives

Discovery Building at duskThe Discovery Building serves the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus and the community by exploring new ways to conduct and share research and creative ideas.

Everything about the building is designed for collaboration, community and interaction. Strategically located in the heart of campus, Discovery connects directly to the university’s core academic centers. Both the design and the location encourage everyone who comes to the Discovery Building, whether to work or to visit, to bump into each other and share ideas.

In the spirit of the Wisconsin Idea, Discovery Connections helps extend the university’s impact beyond the lab and into communities around the state. Our team works with UW-Madison, Morgridge Institute and WID researchers to make their science available to the public, and our robust outreach program offers opportunities for visitors young and old. Every year, Discovery Connections connects tens of thousands of community members with university research.

Mural Images Representing the Wisconsin Idea

Bassam Shakashiri

Dr. Shakhashiri has given more than 1400 invited lectures and presentations around the world. Shakhashiri is a strong advocate for public education and programs that inform the public about scientific research, creating an "educated citizenry".

Mural depiction of Bassam Shakhashiri