US DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY/ED WESTCOTT A controversial figure to this day, J. Robert Oppenheimer led the development and construction of the world's first atomic weapons. Born in New York and educated at Harvard and Cambridge, Oppenheimer taught physics in California before embarking on his role in the Manhattan Project as the director of the top-secret Los Alamos Laboratory. After the war, his past communist leanings came to a head when his government security clearance was revoked after several contentious hearings at the height of the "Red Scare". Learn more about his life and legacy through a series of articles, profiles, virtual tours of his Los Alamos home, and filming locations featured in the 2023 Oppenheimer Hollywood biopic. 
The Life of J. Robert Oppenheimer
Explore the life and legacy of J. Robert Oppenheimer through an article series. 
Oppenheimer Film Characters
Explore the real-life stories of characters featured in the Oppenheimer film. 
Oppenheimer Filming Locations
Explore locations in and around Los Alamos featured in the Oppenheimer film. 
Panoramic Tours
Explore a panoramic tour of Oppenheimer's Los Alamos home as well as other Manhattan Project sites throughout the secret cities. |
Last updated: April 17, 2025