Just over two years ago, the inauguration of Mærsk Tower marked the beginning of all of the research efforts that take place within this building.

Today, we inaugurate the LEO Foundation Skin Immunology Research Center at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen. This marks the beginning of the journey of this center.

Until now, I have only watched the Tower from the outside. But what a sight. What a magnificent landmark of architecture. Fifteen floors rising above the old houses and apartments on Nørrebro. A mix of copper, glass and concrete – and a blend of forms – soft, sharp, curvy. In synergy with its surroundings. And yet remarkably different.

From the outside, I have tried to imagine what was inside – what sort of diverse activities were taking place.

I have imagined groups of students focused on their books or laptops.

Or students on the move from one auditorium to another – or attending lectures.

I have imagined researchers in eager search for new discoveries – in labs and offices. Reading, writing, studying, lecturing.

I can now confirm some of my notions.

Because linked to these very visible activities – lies the somewhat hidden world of knowledge and research in health and medical sciences that takes place on every floor of this building.

And the LEO Foundation Skin Immunology Research Center – which we inaugurate today – is a shining example of this: dedicated to knowledge and research, specializing in immunology and skin.

This center houses both the physical and visible matter (i.e. people, books, auditoriums etc.) and the intellectual content: knowledge, insight and the urge to find solutions to vital and complex societal problems.

Research in itself is a complex matter. It is not only about personal or institutional bottom-line results (you can call that out-put). Research is also confirming or discarding assumptions, analyzing results, and maintaining critical instinct (we could call that through-put). But foremost, research is evolution: sharing and implementing knowledge internally and externally for the benefit of society.

This building is an architectural gem for the City of Copenhagen.

This institution is a treasure for the University of Copenhagen.

This research center is a vault for knowledge within skin immunology.

The results will be the crown!

I hereby officially inaugurate the LEO Foundation Skin Immunology Research Center.