Guiding Principles

Vision

Advancing science for the benefit of humanity.

Mission

Stimulate basic research in astrophysics, nanoscience, neuroscience and theoretical physics; strengthen the relationship between science and society; and honor scientific discoveries with The Kavli Prize.

Values

Our values reflect the character and philosophy of the foundation’s mission and are inspired by our founder, Fred Kavli – a risk-taker, an entrepreneur, a curious individual inspired by the natural world and a champion for science. These values, along with our Code of Conduct, guide our work every day and help us make our mission a reality.

• Partner to Advance Science
  Advancing science for the benefit of humanity requires partnerships. We partner with leading academic institutions; scientific organizations, academies and societies; expert scientists and science communicators; governments; and philanthropists to exchange ideas and leverage each other’s strengths and resources to push the frontiers of science.

• Take the Long View
  Science takes time and works in unexpected ways. Benefits are not always known or immediately seen. The beauty of research is in the journey and in the serendipitous discoveries that can change our lives. We are committed to the possibilities and potential impact in the long term.

• Be Adventurous
  As a young man our founder Fred Kavli immigrated from Norway to America, hoping to create something with long-range benefit for humankind. He dreamt big, took risks and was steadfast in his goals. In that same spirit, we embrace taking a path less traveled and seek ways in which we can make a unique difference, knowing when to move early and quickly to ignite action and fuel sustained progress. We are fearless in our pursuit of science and encourage our partners to be the same.

• Act Globally
  Science has no boundaries. Discoveries happen throughout the world, with the potential to benefit people everywhere. Providing scientists the freedom to explore the potential in astrophysics, theoretical physics, nanoscience and neuroscience; stimulating interdisciplinary collaboration; strengthening the relationship between science and society; and celebrating scientific achievements are all part of achieving a global vision to advance science for the benefit of humanity.

• Embrace Diversity
  Our foundation and the success of the scientific enterprise depends on diverse perspectives and experiences. We champion respectful and dynamic discussions among employees and our partners about opportunities and challenges, successes and lessons to strengthen our collective thinking and action and help us succeed in our mission.

Code of Conduct

How we operate and conduct ourselves matters. We follow the principles below when carrying out the work and affairs of the foundation.

• Be Guided by Our Mission and Values
  We are committed to the foundation values and use them as a guide in our decision-making and approaches to our work. We uphold the mission of the foundation and the vision of our founder, and endeavor to make them a reality.

• Be Respectful and Professional
  We are mindful of our interactions, appreciate and listen to differing points of view, respect confidentiality and the values and ideas of others. We act in a courteous, professional and equitable manner, and hold ourselves to the same standards we ask of others. We are conscious ambassadors of the foundation.

• Be Accountable
  We operate with integrity, honesty and a commitment to the highest standards of ethical, moral and legal conduct in accordance with state and federal law. We are good stewards of our founder’s legacy and use the resources he entrusted to us wisely.

• Be Empowered to Report Misconduct
  We are attuned to our individual and collective conduct and speak up when we have concerns. We report conduct or activities that violate the law, foundation policy and our Code of Conduct. We provide procedures for investigation and prohibit retaliation against those who raise issues and hold us accountable.