Lab Tours

Go behind the scenes at Caltech’s world-class research facilities. From robotics to astrophysics, see where discovery happens.

Hadt Lab

The Hadt Laboratory develops ultrafast laser techniques to observe quantum behavior in molecules. Using femtosecond (a quadrillionth of a second) light pulses and magneto-optical spectroscopy, the group can generate and detect coherent electron spin dynamics in transition-metal complexes and biomolecules under ambient conditions. During the tour, graduate students and postdocs will demonstrate how these experiments reveal how molecular environments control quantum properties—and discuss emerging efforts to transform molecular spin coherence into a new type of spectroscopic and imaging probe, conceptually similar to how MRI turned nuclear spin dynamics into a powerful imaging tool.

Capacity: Two tours available; 10 guests per tour.
Requirements: Safety glasses (to be provided) and closed-toe shoes are required, preferably with pants or longer dresses/skirts (no shorts).

Hutzler Lab

The Hutzler Lab uses quantum-controlled molecules to search for new fundamental particles and forces, study the physics of the nucleus, and explore exotic elements. We will see the equipment used to create, study, and control exotic molecules, and discuss the science behind the work. Nick Hutzler (BS ’07) will lead the tour.

Capacity: Two tours available; 10 guests per tour.
Requirements: Closed-toe shoes are required.

Resnick Sustainability Institute

The Ecology and Biosphere Engineering Facility (EBEF) is a new multi-user facility dedicated to the isolation, cultivation, and genetic manipulation of (micro)organisms. It is located in the new Resnick Sustainability Center (RSC), home to multiple new facilities to advance global sustainability and education. EBEF director Nate Glasser will lead a tour of the RSC and showcase the EBEF’s capabilities, including microbe and plant cultivation for sustainability research.

Capacity: Two tours available; 10 guests per tour.
Requirements: Closed-toe shoes are required, preferably with pants or longer dresses/skirts (no shorts). Elevator access is available.

Seismological Laboratory

The Seismo Lab is an arm of the Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences (GPS) and is internationally recognized for excellence in geophysical research and academics. Home to outstanding facilities in seismic networks and mineral physics, the Lab serves as a focal point for earthquake information in Southern California and the world. Margaret Vinci, office manager of earthquake programs, will lead the lab tour and also discuss USGS collaborations with the Southern California Seismic Network.

Capacity: Two tours available; 25 guests per tour.
Requirements: Ramp and elevator access into the building is available.

Quantum Materials Laboratory

The Quantum Materials Laboratory focuses on the discovery, synthesis, and characterization of emergent electronic and magnetic states in crystalline solids. Researchers explore how symmetry, topology, and electronic correlations give rise to novel phenomena. We will showcase experimental capabilities including crystal growth, low-temperature transport, and strain-tuning methods that enable precise control and probing of quantum materials.

Capacity: Two tours available; six guests per tour.
Requirements: Closed-toe shoes are required. Safety glasses will be provided before entering the lab. Elevator access is available.

Student Life Campus Tour

Join Associate Vice President of Student Life and Chief Student Affairs Officer Joseph Greenwell as he takes you on a personal Student Life tour of campus. He will highlight some of the many services Caltech provides to support the academic, social, and emotional well-being of our students.

Capacity: Two tours available; 25 guests per tour.
Requirements: Walking shoes.