Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) is a world-class collection of the UK’s STFC national laboratories, operated by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). Based at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, home to over 100 space organisations, RAL tackles some of science’s biggest challenges, from particle physics and space research to computing, lasers, and energy.
Through pioneering research, technology development, and diverse training schemes, including apprenticeships and summer placements, RAL supports UK and international science, nurtures STEM talent, and helps drive the growth of the UK space cluster.
Harwell Campus
Beyond its state-of-the-art facilities, RAL benefits from being at the heart of the 700-acre space research campus UK, the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus. This thriving hub hosts over 200 organisations and more than 6,000 people, including industry leaders, start-ups, and government bodies, all collaborating to advance space technology.
Harwell also offers a wide range of amenities to support collaboration and wellbeing, including nurseries, sports facilities, cafés, a post office, a mini supermarket, weekly pop-up food stalls, conference spaces, and open public areas. This vibrant ecosystem strengthens RAL Space’s position as a leading centre for space research, innovation, and engagement.
Enquiries
If you’re interested in space, particle physics, computing, or technology research, find out more about the facilities at RAL on the UKRI Rutherford Appleton Laboratory page.
Rutherford Appleton Laboratory
Harwell Campus
Didcot, Oxfordshire
OX11 0QX
Tel. +44 (0)1235 445000
