With their ability to penetrate matter and resolve individual atoms, X-rays and electrons are among scientists’ most useful tools for determining the structure and behavior of molecules and materials.

Modern technology creates new opportunities for society: Just think about how artificial intelligence has changed our cars and cell phone apps.

SLAC develops and deploys some of the world’s most advanced scientific tools for exploring how the universe works at the biggest, smallest and fastest scales. Here we explain how they work and the exciting discoveries they make possible.

The lab is organized into six scientific directorates, each of which plays an important role in advancing our lab, backed by our core operations teams all supporting our shared mission.

Learn about SLAC’s senior leadership, directorates and core teams below. For an overview of our organizational structure, you can download the interactive PDF org chart.

SLAC’s Office of Communications is committed to giving members of the media accurate, up-to-date information about the lab and its research and making our experts available for interviews.

SLAC research explores nature on all scales, from the unseen realms of fundamental particles and unbelievably fast processes to astrophysical phenomena of cosmic dimensions that unfold over the age of the universe. Our research opens new windows to the natural...

SLAC researchers are experts in a broad range of scientific disciplines, including X-ray and ultrafast science, physics of the universe, advanced accelerators, energy sciences, science of life and new technologies.

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Tiny microbes and molecular machines have an outsized impact on human health, and they play key roles in the vast global cycles that shape climate and make carbon and nitrogen available to all living things. SLAC biology advances our understanding...