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.
See all institutesFeatured News
Explore the latest news, events and discoveries from our Kavli Institutes and partners.
See all newsNanoscience Profile
Dan Ralph, new co-director of the Kavli Institute at Cornell for Nanoscale Science, describes the strengths of the institute and what lies ahead
Mar 17, 2023
Astrophysics Profile
Abigail Vieregg, director of the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics, shares her passion for building experiments and bringing people together to solve scientific mysteries
Feb 22, 2023
Neuroscience Profile
Alipasha Vaziri and Mary E. Hatten create spaces for neuroscience to flourish in the Kavli Neural Systems Institute
Feb 20, 2023
Astrophysics Research Highlights
Research highlights from Kavli Astrophysics Institutes
Feb 16, 2023
Nanoscience Research Highlights
Research highlights from Kavli Nanoscience Institutes
Feb 15, 2023
Astrophysics Profile
Part 1 of our Signs of Life series looks at how worlds observationally appearing to host extraterrestrial life could instead be home to distinctly unearthly geological processes
Jan 24, 2023
Neuroscience Science Spotlights
2022 Scialog Collaborative Innovation Awards
Jan 20, 2023
Astrophysics Research Highlights
Research highlights from Kavli Astrophysics Institutes
Jan 18, 2023
Nanoscience Research Highlights
Research highlights from Kavli Nanoscience Institutes
Jan 10, 2023
Professorships
Practically everything we touch in our daily lives has been developed and improved through basic research.
- Fred Kavli