Lyman Laboratory of Physics

Lyman Laboratory of Physics is a research building at Harvard University in the North Yard, positioned between Jefferson and Cruft Laboratories at 17 Oxford Street. The brick structure contains offices, teaching spaces, laboratory areas, and equipment for experiments across multiple physics disciplines.

The building was constructed in 1931 and was originally called the Research Laboratory of Physics before being renamed in 1947 to honor Professor Theodore Lyman. The renaming recognized Lyman's important contributions to spectroscopy and the development of modern physics.

The laboratory serves as the working hub for Harvard's Physics Department, where students and researchers move between classrooms and experiments throughout the day. This building embodies the academic rhythm of advanced scientific training on campus.

The building is accessible during daytime hours on weekdays, though specific laboratories and offices may require permission to enter. It is best to contact the Physics Department in advance if you want to visit particular areas or see ongoing research.

When it opened, the laboratory housed one of the largest X-ray research facilities of its era, which enabled groundbreaking advances in physics research. This advanced equipment helped answer many questions about the structure of matter.

Location: Cambridge

Architects: Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge

GPS coordinates: 42.37753,-71.11713

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:09