Gower Translational Research Center
The Gower Translational Research Center, located at 1785 University Press Drive, is a hub of high-level research in life sciences and value-added agriculture. The 55,000-square-foot space is dedicated to life sciences research and more. Originally, the McLafferty building was constructed to house library materials and staff during the Morris Library renovation. Today, it encompasses programs, services, and resources to support research, innovation, and business development throughout the region.
The Gowers have been generous donors to Southern Illinois University for many years. Most recently, they dedicated $2.5 million to advance the mission and support the research activities taking place across campus.
The impact made by Dr. Bob and Mrs. Beth Gower has been felt by Southern Illinois University students and faculty for years. In honor of this transformational gift, the SIU Board of Trustees voted in December of 2024 that the McLafferty Annex be named the Gower Translational Research Center. Now, the Gower name will be forever imprinted into the university’s future at the Gower Translational Research Center.
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