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Research institutes headquartered in California

Tamtam tracks 65 research institutes headquartered in California. This list ranks all of them by number of employees on LinkedIn, led by University of California, UCLA and Stanford University. Their median headcount is 2,235. Half of them were founded in 1948 or later. The most common headquarters are Los Angeles (11), La Jolla (6) and San Francisco (5).

馃嚭馃嚫 California65 companiesUpdated Oct 24, 2026
#CompanyIndustryHeadquarters EmployeesFounded
1
University of Californiajobs.universityofcalifornia.edu

Educating top minds, advancing research, engaging communities, supporting economy, improving health, protecting environment, and driving innovation across California.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Oakland 152,503 n/a
2
UCLAucla.edu

A renowned public research university offering diverse academic programs in a picturesque campus location within a thriving global city

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 29,540 1919
3
Stanford Universitystanford.edu

Leading research university fostering innovation, education, and global citizenship with extensive resources, diverse programs, and strong community partnerships.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Stanford 28,573 n/a
4
University of California, Berkeleyberkeley.edu

Public research university offering diverse academic programs, fostering innovation, and serving as a flagship institution in California.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Berkeley 24,082 1868
5
University of Southern Californiausc.edu

A leading private research university located in Los Angeles, focused on academic excellence and fostering a community of alumni and students

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 23,894 1880
6
UC San Diegoucsd.edu

A globally renowned research university fostering collaboration, driving discoveries, and equipping students to solve pressing global issues as changemakers

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 La Jolla 22,205 n/a
7
University of California, San Franciscoucsf.edu

The company is dedicated to achieving breakthroughs through top research, education, and patient care, emphasizing collaboration across disciplines

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 San Francisco 21,833 1873
8
University of California, Davisucdavis.edu

Public university offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs, conducting extensive research, fostering innovation, and preparing future leaders across multiple disciplines.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Davis 21,439 1908
9
UC Irvineuci.edu

A top public research university in Southern California committed to rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and leadership development with global impact

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Irvine 14,695 1965
10
City of Hopecityofhope.org

Comprehensive cancer research, treatment, and innovation with a national network, focusing on breakthrough medicines and patient care integration.

Hospitals and Health Care 馃嚭馃嚫 Duarte 12,442 1913
11
UC Santa Barbaraucsb.edu

A renowned institution on the California coast, UCSB fosters academic excellence and creativity, showcasing achievements and connecting the Gaucho community

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Santa Barbara 10,619 n/a
12
San Jos茅 State Universitysjsu.edu

Public university in Silicon Valley offering hands-on learning, research, career services, alumni networking, and community engagement opportunities.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 San Jose 10,329 n/a
13
University of California, Santa Cruzucsc.edu

A pioneering university with a focus on social justice, groundbreaking research, and a unique academic environment, producing influential alumni worldwide

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Santa Cruz 9,767 1965
14
San Diego State Universitysdsu.edu

Top-ranked public research institution offering transformative experiences, international opportunities, diversity initiatives, and vibrant campus life for over 36,000 students

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 San Diego 9,764 n/a
15
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratoryllnl.gov

Development and application of advanced science, technology, and engineering to enhance national security, counterterrorism, defense, energy, and environmental challenges.

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 Livermore 9,546 1952
16
Stanford University School of Medicinemed.stanford.edu

Premier academic hub combining research, education, and clinical care to advance health through innovation, leadership, and collaborative discoveries.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Palo Alto 9,384 n/a
17
NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratoryjpl.jobs

A federally funded research and development center managed by Caltech for NASA, specializing in space exploration, technology development, and scientific problem-solving

Space Research and Technology 馃嚭馃嚫 Pasadena 8,652 1936
18
California State University, Fullertonlinktr.ee

Public university providing innovative education, research opportunities, cultural engagement, and athletic programs to support student and community development.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Fullerton 7,638 1957
19
California State University, Northridgecsun.edu

A vibrant university community in Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley with 40,000 students, 4,000 faculty/staff, and a commitment to education and service

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Northridge 7,139 n/a
20
Caltechcaltech.edu

A leading science and engineering research institution in California focused on seeking answers, discovering new knowledge, and transforming the future

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Pasadena 5,794 1891
21
California State University-Sacramentocsus.edu

An urban university in California with a diverse student body, offering small classes, quality teaching, research, and internship opportunities in government

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Sacramento 5,616 1947
22
Loyola Marymount Universitylmu.edu

Comprehensive university providing undergraduate, graduate, law, and credential programs with a strong Jesuit Catholic tradition and high research activity.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 5,381 1911
23
Berkeley Lablinktr.ee

A national laboratory managed by the University of California for the Department of Energy, focusing on sustainable energy, materials innovation, computing, and scientific exploration

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 Berkeley 5,253 1931
24
Stanford University Graduate School of Businessgsb.stanford.edu

The company provides management and leadership programs, including MBA, MSx, PhD, and Executive Education, empowering individuals through innovative learning experiences

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Stanford 5,192 n/a
25
California State University, Los Angelescalstatela.edu

Comprehensive public university offering nationally recognized programs in science, arts, business, and engineering, dedicated to student upward mobility and community public good.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 4,380 n/a
26
University of California, Merceducmerced.edu

Leading American research university formed in 2005, known for its sustainable design, economic impact, and commitment to increasing college access

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Merced 3,987 2005
27
GIA (Gemological Institute of America)gia.edu

A nonprofit committed to research, education, and innovation in the gem industry, ensuring public trust and promoting sustainability

Non-profit Organizations 馃嚭馃嚫 Carlsbad 3,399 1931
28
SRIsri.com

An independent non-profit institute focused on research and development in Silicon Valley, creating innovative technologies for a better future globally

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 Menlo Park 2,968 1946
29
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLAmedschool.ucla.edu

A leading medical institution focusing on research, education, patient care, and community engagement to advance medicine and benefit society

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 2,846 1951
30
RANDrand.org

nonprofit organization providing unbiased research and analysis to support evidence-based policymaking and improve decisionmaking for leaders

Non-profit Organizations 馃嚭馃嚫 Santa Monica 2,839 1946
31
NASA Ames Research Centernasa.gov

A leading research center in Silicon Valley conducting cutting-edge research in aeronautics, exploration technology, and science for over 75 years

Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing 馃嚭馃嚫 Moffett Field 2,464 1939
32
Scripps Researchscripps.edu

A leader in biomedical research, innovation, and education, working to improve human health and create hope for millions worldwide

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 La Jolla 2,348 1993
33
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratorywww6.slac.stanford.edu

A diverse workforce of 1,700 employees at the forefront of cutting-edge research in various disciplines, collaborating in a stimulating environment

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 Menlo Park 2,235 1962
34
EPRIepri.com

A global energy research and development organization driving innovation for clean, safe, reliable, affordable electricity access worldwide

Utilities 馃嚭馃嚫 Palo Alto 2,092 1972
35
Public Health Institutephi.org

A nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting health and well-being through research and innovations in public health on a national and international scale

Non-profit Organizations 馃嚭馃嚫 Oakland 1,646 1964
36
UCLA Anderson School of Managementanderson.ucla.edu

Preparing global leaders with a world view to drive change and make a lasting difference in organizations and communities worldwide

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 1,609 1935
37
Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern Californiakeck.usc.edu

A leading medical school in Los Angeles affiliated with USC, offering diverse patient care experiences and cutting-edge research opportunities

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 1,603 1885
38
UC Merceducmerced.edu

Newest campus in the UC system focused on sustainability, research, and supporting underserved students, with a major expansion project underway

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Merced 1,563 2005
39
Humboldt State Universityhumboldt.edu

The company, formerly known as Humboldt State University, has archived its LinkedIn page New updates can now be found on Cal Poly Humboldt's page

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Arcata 1,560 1913
40
Scripps Institution of Oceanographyscripps.ucsd.edu

A world-renowned institution focusing on ocean and earth science research, education, and public service across various disciplines

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 La Jolla 1,484 1903
41
Salk Institute for Biological Studiessalk.edu

World-class scientists conducting advanced research in neuroscience, cancer, aging, immunobiology, plant biology, and computational biology fields.

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 La Jolla 1,249 1960
42
UC San Diego School of Medicinemedschool.ucsd.edu

Dedicated to advancing understanding and treatment of human diseases through translational research, clinical care, and education for a healthier world

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 San Diego 1,201 1968
43
UC Irvine School of Medicinemedschool.uci.edu

Advancing medical research, educating diverse health professionals, and providing patient-centered healthcare through clinical, teaching, and research programs in Orange County.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Irvine 1,119 1967
44
PARCsri.com

Innovative research institute in Silicon Valley with deep impact on technology, now leading open innovation and developing groundbreaking technologies and ideas

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 Palo Alto 962 n/a
45
UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Sciencesamueli.ucla.edu

Leading engineering school offering 28 degree programs, conducting cutting-edge research in renewable energy, healthcare, cybersecurity, and more with top-ranked faculty and research centers

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 961 1945
46
SDSU Research Foundationfoundation.sdsu.edu

Non-profit organization managing grants, contracts, compliance, and administrative services to support San Diego State University's research and educational objectives.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 San Diego 951 1943
47
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Sciencecdrewu.edu

A private nonprofit medical institution in South Los Angeles, offering education, research, and clinical services to train health professionals for underserved communities

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 946 1966
48
University of California, Los Angeles - School of Lawucla.edu

A leading law school with innovative teaching methods, interdisciplinary research, and a focus on connecting research to society and the legal profession

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 797 1949
49
California Academy of Sciencescalacademy.org

A renowned scientific and educational institution in San Francisco dedicated to regenerating the natural world through its aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum

Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos 馃嚭馃嚫 San Francisco 787 1853
50
Sanford Burnham Prebyssbpdiscovery.org

A renowned biomedical research institute advancing scientific discoveries in cancer, neuroscience, immunology, and children's diseases while focusing on drug discovery and improving human health

Biotechnology Research 馃嚭馃嚫 La Jolla 786 1976
51
NASA, Office of Inspector Generalnasa.gov

The company operates the world's largest aerodynamics test facility, specializing in testing aircraft, wind turbines, parachutes, and other large-scale structures for various industries

Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing 馃嚭馃嚫 Mountain View 750 1940
52
University of California, Berkeley - School of Lawlaw.berkeley.edu

Offers top-tier J.D., LL.M., and J.S.D. programs with expert faculty, committed to solving real-world problems and creating a just society through research and pro-bono efforts.

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Berkeley 715 1912
53
UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineeringjacobsschool.ucsd.edu

A leading engineering school educating future technology leaders, conducting innovative research, and collaborating across disciplines to tackle global challenges

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 La Jolla 656 n/a
54
Hoover Institution, Stanford Universityhoover.org

Researching economics, politics, and international affairs to advance ideas promoting economic opportunity, prosperity, and securing peace for America and humanity.

Think Tanks 馃嚭馃嚫 Stanford 652 1919
55
UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicinevetmed.ucdavis.edu

This company focuses on advancing animal, human, and environmental health through veterinary education, research, clinical services, and public outreach programs in California

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Davis 619 1948
56
Gladstone Institutesgladstone.org

The company drives discovery in disease-oriented science, mentors future leaders, and explores innovative approaches to overcome health challenges through convergence

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 San Francisco 596 1979
57
The Lundquist Institutelundquist.org

Conducts groundbreaking medical research, collaborating with Harbor-UCLA Medical Center to translate discoveries into treatments benefiting individuals across various health conditions

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 Torrance 586 1952
58
Internet Archivearchive.org

non-profit digital library providing free access to billions of web pages, books, audio, video, images, and software archives.

Libraries 馃嚭馃嚫 San Francisco 313 1996
59
UC Berkeley College of Computing, Data Science, and Societycdss.berkeley.edu

A leading academic institution offering a dynamic teaching and research environment in data science, preparing students to address social challenges across domains

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Berkeley 205 n/a
60
Stanford Mussallem Center for Biodesignbiodesign.stanford.edu

Dedicated to advancing health outcomes and equity through innovation education, translation, and policy, reinventing healthcare with technology for a healthier world

Higher Education 馃嚭馃嚫 Stanford 174 2001
61
huMannity Medtechumannitymedtec.org

Non-profit organization pioneering life-enhancing medical technologies for undermet healthcare needs, focusing on long-term, high-risk challenges with talented staff

Medical Equipment Manufacturing 馃嚭馃嚫 Valencia 144 1985
62
NASAnasa.gov

Explores unknown in air and space, innovates for humanity, studies Earth and universe, advances technology, operates space station, plans Moon presence.

Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing 馃嚭馃嚫 California 75 n/a
63
Sarafan ChEM-H | Stanford Universitychemh.stanford.edu

Innovative hub focused on improving human health through diverse disciplines and people in life, physical, and clinical sciences

Research Services 馃嚭馃嚫 Stanford 51 2014
64
Stanford Research Institutesri.com

Independent nonprofit research institute conducting client-sponsored R&D for various organizations, bringing innovations to the marketplace through licenses and new ventures

Software Development 馃嚭馃嚫 San Francisco 24 1970
65
Laboratory for the Chemistry of Construction Materials (LC2)lcc-ucla.com

The company conducts research to develop sustainable, low-carbon materials for infrastructure construction, focusing on improving concrete performance while promoting environmental responsibility

Civil Engineering 馃嚭馃嚫 Los Angeles 3 2010

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How this list is built

Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Oct 24, 2026.

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