The genius, who discovered the theory of relativity, died in 1955, aged 76. His brain was then removed and preserved for scientific research.
Scientists found that Einstein’s brain was the same as all the others except in one particular area – the region responsible for mathematical thought and the ability to think in terms of space and movement.
His organ will be displayed alongside that of computer pioneer Charles Babbage and criminals such as bodysnatcher William Burke.
The preserved brain of women’s rights campaigner Helen H Gardener who died in 1925 is also part of the display.
Curator Marius Kwint said the exhibition was “a physical encounter with the brain as an organ and as an object”.
She says the exhibition will explore what has been done to brains in the cause of scientific study.
Brains: the mind as matter, runs from Thursday until June 17 at the Wellcome Collection in Euston Road, admission free.
