USC’s new Brain Health Center brings leading-edge brain imaging and cognitive care under one roof
March 19, 2026
Ribbon cutting on March 18 celebrates new home uniting clinical care, research and 7-Tesla MRI scanner
The University of South Carolina marked a major milestone in providing South Carolinians with specialized cognitive care at a ribbon cutting for its Brain Health Center on the university’s Health Sciences Campus on Wednesday (March 18).
The newly renovated, 65,000-square-foot facility is designed to deliver exceptional diagnostic, treatment and support services for patients living with cognitive conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
The Brain Health Center brings together clinical services, advanced imaging, infusion therapy, rehabilitation and research in one location.
The outpatient facility — renovated with one-time state funding of $30 million — includes 16 exam, testing and treatment rooms to support comprehensive evaluations and ongoing care.
Leading-edge brain imaging technology
Among the center’s most significant features is its imaging technology. Sen. Lindsey Graham championed this project at the federal level to secure funding to outfit the center, including South Carolina’s only 7-Tesla MRI dedicated to patient care and a wide-bore 3-Tesla MRI scanner.
“These MRI scanners, especially the 7-T, are like keys our researchers will use to unlock the secrets of the brain,” says Julius Fridriksson, USC’s vice president for research. “They will place USC Brain Health at the forefront of patient diagnostics and enable us to expand access to clinical research initiatives in South Carolina.”
The 3-Tesla MRI is about twice as powerful as standard clinical MRI scanners, producing highly detailed images that assist physicians in evaluating complex neurological conditions.
The ultra-high-field 7-Tesla MRI scanner offers unprecedented precision in brain imaging, enabling earlier detection of subtle abnormalities. It will also provide clear, detailed images for USC researchers conducting pioneering research into neurological conditions.
“Today’s ribbon cutting is a major milestone in providing unparalleled health care to all South Carolinians,” says Sarah Kirby, USC’s associate vice president for clinical affairs. “We want to ensure the individuals and families confronting cognitive challenges have access to advanced diagnostics, breakthrough treatments and comprehensive care close to home.”
Care designed for quality of life
The facility includes a neurology clinic where patients and caregivers will work closely with general and behavioral neurologists, epilepsy specialists and neuropsychology providers. They will develop clear, personalized treatment plans that ensure seamless coordination across care teams.
It also offers an eight-bay infusion suite and dedicated areas for physical, occupational and speech therapy. These services will help patients experiencing cognitive changes build strength, maintain daily living skills, improve mobility and reduce fall risk — all key components of preserving independence and quality of life.
Beyond patient care, the Brain Health Center will serve as a collaborative research environment where USC experts will advance discoveries in stroke, aphasia, autism, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
By integrating research with clinical practice, the center will create opportunities for patients to participate in clinical trials and innovative studies aimed at improving treatment options and outcomes.
Development of the Health Sciences Campus will include the building of a new School of Medicine Columbia facility and a neurological hospital and rehabilitation center.
