The Physical Sciences Area seeks to understand the fundamental physics of the universe at scales ranging from the infinitely small, inside the world of subatomic particles and nuclei, to the infinitely large, in the structure and evolution of the universe. To tackle these two infinities, we develop cutting-edge tools and technologies, coupled with creative scientific insights, that advance scientific knowledge and ultimately benefit society.
Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics
The Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division invents, develops, and deploys particle accelerators and accelerator-based photon sources to explore and control matter and energy.
Engineering
The Engineering Division builds advanced scientific instrumentation that enables many of the research breakthroughs achieved by Berkeley Lab. These discoveries are the direct result of the integrated coordination and deployment of professional engineering and specialized technical resources.
Nuclear Science
The Nuclear Science Division conducts basic research aimed at understanding the structure and interactions of nuclei and the forces of nature as manifested in nuclear matter.
Physics
Interactions between matter and energy shape our world and the universe around us. Physics Division researchers are studying these interactions from the innermost confines of subatomic particles to the outermost reaches of the cosmos.
True Tales of Team Science: Come Fly With Me
Inside the Physics Division at Berkeley Lab
2026 Berkeley Lab Director’s Awards honor PSA staff members
CNC Machine Installation
This video tour welcomes viewers into the exciting and vibrant research environment of Berkeley Lab’s Physics Division.
The Multi-Office-Particle Accelerator Team (MOAT) Puts AI to Work for Accelerators
This new video highlights the Multi-Office Particle Accelerator Team (MOAT), a collaborative effort led by Berkeley Lab as part of the DOE Genesis Mission, that is developing AI tools to improve particle accelerators and speed breakthroughs.
The Invisible Cannonball: Tracking Alpha Therapy for the Future of Cancer Treatment
In Episode 3 of the Let’s Get Nuclear podcast, NSD researchers explore the shift from traditional beta-emitting isotopes – which act like tiny BB pellets – to the high-energy power of alpha emitters, which hit cancer cells like cannonballs. But there is a catch: these potent treatments are used in such small doses that they are nearly invisible to current imaging technology.
