SCIENCE, ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

Albuquerque has been a hub for scientific research for nearly a century. 

The city is home to Sandia National Laboratories, one of the National Nuclear Security Administration’s R&D labs. In addition to researching nuclear weapons and technology, Sandia Labs also advances research in climate change, computational biology, mathematics, materials science, alternative energy, psychology and cognitive science. The Air Force Research Lab has two reserach sites in Albuquerque for Space Vehicles and Directed Energy. The University of New Mexico serves as an R1 institution for several areas of research.

ALBUQUERQUE AREA HIGH-TECH COMPANIES

From aerospace and defense to renewable energy and software development, Albuquerque's tech landscape showcases a dynamic blend of established players and emerging startups. The city's technology field is fueled by research institutions driving forward advancements in fields such as cybersecurity, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. With a focus on collaboration, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge research, Albuquerque's tech companies are poised to make significant contributions to both local economic growth and global technological advancement. Some of these notable companies include: 

• An Intel manufacturing facility that includes one of the nation’s largest cleanrooms and new fab opened in 2024
• A Torc Robotics autonomous vehicle test center
• The headquarters of RS21, an innovator in data science and artificial intelligence
• The headquarters of BayoTech, which develops hydrogen energy products
• The Mind Research Network, an interdisciplinary association of brain-research scientists from around the world

Other engineering, aerospace and scientific businesses near Albuquerque include Spaceport America, a hub for aviation and space technologies located three hours south of Albuquerque, and Los Alamos National Laboratory, a R&D lab of the U.S. Department of Energy, located two hours north.

Fun Fact: Did you know Albuquerque is the birthplace of Microsoft?

Explore Albuquerque's Scientific Wonders

Whether you're fascinated by dinosaurs, intrigued by the mysteries of space, or eager to experiment with interactive displays, Albuquerque's attractions promise an enriching experience for all ages. Immerse yourself in a world of discovery and ignite your curiosity as you uncover the captivating realms of science in the heart of New Mexico. Albuquerque offers a myriad of affordable opportunities to delve into the wonders of science:

• New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science: The museum offers visitors a captivating journey through the region's rich geological, paleontological, and cultural history. Exhibits feature stunning fossils, interactive displays, and engaging multimedia presentations that bring ancient landscapes and creatures to life.
• National Museum of Nuclear Science & History: As a Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum gives its visitors a memorable and vivid understanding of nuclear science and history. From the origins of atomic theory to the complexity of political scenarios contributing to World War II, to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine the museum provides a window into the past, present and future of nuclear science.
• Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway: Take a mile-high ride above the city on North America’s longest aerial tramway and marvel at endless views of the Land of Enchantment. Dine more than 10,000 feet up at Ten 3, the restaurant located at the top of the tram.
• Petroglyph National Monument: One of the largest petroglyph sites in North America that contains more than 20,000 images and symbols carved into volcanic rocks by Native American and Spanish settlers from over 400 years ago. 
• ABQ BioPark: Stop and smell the roses at the award-winning Botanic Garden, fish the outdoor lakes at Tingley Beach, or experience Albuquerque’s wild side at the Zoo or Aquarium – all are part of the premier ABQ BioPark.
• Explora: From tinkering with gadgets to conducting experiments, visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of scientific inquiry while learning through play. Explora invites visitors to embark on a hands-on journey of discovery, where science becomes an interactive adventure for all ages, sparks curiosity and inspires a lifelong love of learning in its visitors.
• Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum: The world’s premier facility dedicated to the art, culture, science, history, sport and spectacle of ballooning, and features a collection of ballooning equipment and memorabilia.
• UNM Research Centers: The University of New Mexico is home to cutting-edge research centers that explore advancements across various disciplines. The UNM Center for High Technology features nearly two dozen laboratories that house high power lasers, scanning electron microscopes and advanced workstations for numerical simulations of atomic structures. The UNM Health and Sciences Center integrate laboratory-based science, clinical trials and community-based investigations in discovering the latest medical and technological advancements.
• Innovate ABQ: This initiative aims to assist individuals aspiring to enhance their income or living standards by integrating them into an Innovation Community. Through this, they can gain access to fresh ideas, develop new skills, secure capital, and receive mentorship within a supportive framework designed to boost their prospects of success.

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