Where Innovation Begins

UC Berkeley’s R&D testbed for next‑gen technologies

Background image: RFS Overhead looking at the Golden Gate Bridge.
Image credit:
UC Berkeley

A Proving Ground For Breakthrough Tech That Moves, Feeds, Powers, and Connects the World.

The Richmond Field Station (RFS) is UC Berkeley’s 140-acre research hub in Richmond, just 15 minutes from campus. It hosts 1,000+ researchers, students, and startups working on everything from mobility, clean energy, and smart infrastructure, to earthquake safety, bioeconomy, and ecological restoration.

UC Research

Researchers testing at the Center for Smart Infrastructure.

RFS offers dedicated space for UC Berkeley research teams advancing next-generation technology and applied innovation across engineering disciplines.

Student Organizations

Aerospace SAE at Berkeley

RFS hosts select engineering student teams, providing workspace, staff support, and tools to help them build, test, and compete with real-world prototypes.

Startups

Startups working at Richmond Field Station.

RFS supports startups with lab space, testbeds, and facilities designed for hands-on R&D. Entrepreneurs plug into a collaborative, innovation-driven environment.

Looking For a Space to Build? Bring Your Big Ideas to Richmond Field Station.

With access to flexible labs, office space, a dedicated AV test track, V2X infrastructure, drone park, and one of the world’s largest earthquake shake tables, RFS offers the tools and space to turn cutting-edge ideas into real-world breakthroughs. Click here to submit your Application today →

Office & Collaboration Space

Richmond Field Station offices and lab space.

RFS offers dedicated offices and labs designed for startups, researchers, and student orgs. Plug into a thriving innovation community with access to Berkeley faculty, partners, and peers just steps away.

Labs & Technical Facilities

PEER building, which houses the world's largest shake table for earthquake testing.

Build, iterate, and validate inside flexible lab spaces equipped for everything from hardware prototyping to environmental analysis. Labs are connected to active research units and tailored for interdisciplinary work.

Testbeds & Infrastructure

Outdoor testing facilities.

From an AV test track and V2X lab to a drone park, seismic shake table, and coastal ecosystems - RFS is where technologies meet the elements. Ideal for piloting, stress testing, and refining solutions in real conditions.

Tap Into Resources That Accelerate Innovation.

From RFS services and faculty engagement to student capstone projects and small business grants, a range of resources are available to help you take the next step. Explore services, find collaborators, or connect with our team for directions, tours, or tailored support.

RFS Resources

RFS through the trees.

RFS resources include access to faculty, students, and equipment. These connections support collaboration across disciplines and accelerate the path from research to real-world solutions.

RFS Services

The RFS Team

RFS offers research, office, and lab space, along with shared facilities and site support services. To request services or inquire about availability, please contact the RFS administration team.

Directions & Contact

Direction to RFS and map around the facilities.

RFS is located just off I-80/580, and accessible via BART with first/last-mile connections through Richmond Moves. To get in touch, please contact us by email or phone, or visit us.