JILA began as a joint institute of the University of Colorado Boulder and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (then known as the National Bureau of Standards) in 1962. At that time, the study of laboratory astrophysics was a new concept. Now, over fifty years later, JILA studies a broad section of physics including Quantum Information Science & Technology, Atomic & Molecular Physics, Astrophysics, Laser Physics, Biophysics, Chemical Physics, Nanoscience and Precision Measurement. JILA's Fellows are regularly awarded the top prizes in the field of science.
To learn more about JILA's history and how JILA grew from the initial concept, to today, you might enjoy downloading the PDF version of our 50th anniversary book, JILA: The First 50 Years.
Download the PDF file as individual pages
Download the PDF file as page spreads
John Ward listens for signals inside the Poorman Relief mine which was used briefly in 1961 - 1962 to house a giant interferometer.
The Physics Frontiers Centers (PFC) program supports university-based centers and institutes where the collective efforts of a larger group of individuals can enable transformational advances in the most promising research areas. The program is designed to foster major breakthroughs at the intellectual frontiers of physics by providing needed resources such as combinations of talents, skills, disciplines, and/or specialized infrastructure, not usually available to individual investigators or small groups, in an environment in which the collective efforts of the larger group can be shown to be seminal to promoting significant progress in the science and the education of students. PFCs also include creative, substantive activities aimed at enhancing education, broadening participation of traditionally underrepresented groups, and outreach to the scientific community and general public.