Science

We support basic research in 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.

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Seeing the Cosmos Anew with the Prime Focus Spectrograph
Astrophysics
New instrumentation from the Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe will help scientists study the early history of the universe
Mar 24, 2025
A Cosmic Twofer: “Early” Dark Energy Could Explain Anomalous Galaxies and the Universe’s Disjointed Expansion Rate
Astrophysics
Researchers at the Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research have proposed a way to solve two cosmic mysteries with a single underlying explanation
Feb 21, 2025
Next-Generation Superconductors
Nanoscience
Partnering to advance superconductor development using artificial intelligence and quantum geometry
Feb 04, 2025
Neural Adaptation in Changing Ecosystems
Neuroscience
The Kavli Foundation and Society for Neuroscience partner on Neurobiology and Changing Ecosystems training series
Dec 16, 2024
On the Origin of Worlds: Ruobing Dong’s Quest to Explain the Rise of All Planets
Astrophysics
New research from Dong and colleagues has lent strong support to an alternative means of planet-forming, offering a fuller picture of the pathways to planethood
Dec 12, 2024
From Quantum Effects to Synthetic Cells
Nanoscience
Kavli nano investigators nab macro Dutch prize
Dec 12, 2024
Two Decades of Transformative and Collaborative Neuroscience
Neuroscience
Kavli Institute for Neuroscience at Yale Celebrates 20 Years
Dec 11, 2024
Thinking Outside the Box in the Search for Extraterrestrial Life, Courtesy of Heavy-Metal Gases
Astrophysics
Researchers report progress in their innovative efforts to demonstrate how the detection of unusual organometallic gases in exoplanets’ atmosphere could lock down a discovery of alien life
Dec 11, 2024
Nanotechnologies for Climate Solutions: Thinking Big
Nanoscience
Comment in Nature Nanotechnology explores the role of nanoscience for sustainability
Dec 11, 2024
Celebrating 20 Years of KIBM
Neuroscience
The Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind
Dec 11, 2024