The Allen Institute is an independent, non-profit bioscience research organization in Seattle, which conducts large-scale, “open science” research in neuroscience, cell biology, and immunology. It makes all of its data and tools public in order to accelerate global research into human health. But like many science-based organizations, the good it does is not always evident to the general public.
Designer Neville Brody has created a new identity for the organization that makes the Institute’s work visible and beautiful. The new plan is based on two components: the lens and the slash. The circular lens provides the shape for the new logo and social avatar. It holds a lowercase “a” for Allen and the slash element, which represents momentum and progress.
The lens also serves as a frame for bold colors and imagery, all taken directly from the organization’s research. Instead of sterile, dense, and/or predictable visuals, the new identity shares the beauty and many hues of science.
From the Institute’s website: “At the Allen Institute, we believe science is for everyone, everywhere. On our quest to accelerate science for a healthier world, we’re boldly redefining what’s possible. We’re setting our sights on extraordinary destinations, and we want you to join us…. From vivid colors and bold type to clear and concise language, we’re focused on telling our story in an approachable, conversational, and humanistic way.”
