We support basic research in four areas of life and physical sciences: astrophysics, nanoscience, neuroscience and theoretical physics. These fields seek answers to some of humanity’s most fundamental scientific questions, yielding basic knowledge that enables a better future.
Astrophysics
Exploration of the origin, structure and composition of the universe and everything in it
Nanoscience
Inquiry at the scale of atoms and molecules to explore the vast possibilities of energy and matter
Neuroscience
Investigation into the structure and function of the brain and broader nervous system
Theoretical Physics
Endeavor to explain and predict the wonders of the physical and biological world
The Kavli Institutes
At the 20 Kavli Institutes internationally, scientists push the frontiers of science, seeking answers to fundamental questions in astrophysics, nanoscience, neuroscience and theoretical physics – the big, the small, and the complex.
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Featured News
Explore the latest news, events and discoveries from our Kavli Institutes and partners.
See all newsAstrophysics Science Spotlights
New Kavli-Laukien Postdoctoral Fellowship Program and Inaugural Scholars Announced
Sep 05, 2023
Neuroscience
The Kavli Foundation launches a new initiative to explore how neural systems adapt to changing environments
Aug 28, 2023
Nanoscience Science Spotlights
Physicists and biophysicists search for missing link between quantum computing, sensing and communication
Aug 23, 2023
Astrophysics Science Spotlights
Scialog: Signatures of life in the universe
Jul 14, 2023
Astrophysics Profile
Kavli astrophysics institute researchers have leveraged the might of JWST to see the previously unobservable dim galaxies that host bright quasars
Jul 10, 2023
Astrophysics Profile
Jia Liu, inaugural director of Kavli IPMU's new center, brings creativity and purpose to the looming challenge of big data
Jun 22, 2023
Neuroscience Profile
Researchers at the Kavli Neuroscience Discovery Institute combine state of the art in vivo imaging with machine learning
Jun 21, 2023
Neuroscience
In partnership with The Grass Foundation, The Kavli Foundation supports early career scientists’ inquiry into neurobiology and changing ecosystems
Jun 16, 2023
Nanoscience Research Highlights
Research Highlights from Kavli Nanoscience Institutes
Jun 14, 2023
Astrophysics Research Highlights
Members of Kavli astrophysics institutes often appear together as coauthors on scientific papers
Jun 02, 2023
Kavli Scholars
Kavli Scholars are exceptional individuals we support to continue their scientific endeavors in the face of disruption.
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Practically everything we touch in our daily lives has been developed and improved through basic research.
- Fred Kavli