Carlsberg Research Laboratory celebrates 150 Years

The Carlsberg Research Laboratory, the world’s first industrial research lab, is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a rare public opening and a tribute to its lasting impact on science and brewing.

Founded in 1875 by brewer J.C. Jacobsen in Copenhagen, the lab has pioneered several major innovations, including the invention of the pH scale, the discovery of purified yeast for consistent beer quality, and click chemistry, which won a Nobel Prize in 2022.

To mark the milestone, Carlsberg is offering guided public tours every Sunday in April and May through its Home of Carlsberg attraction. Visitors will get exclusive access to the lab, along with tastings of special brews that showcase the past, present, and future of brewing.

Today, more than 100 scientists continue the lab’s legacy, focusing on sustainable agriculture, climate-resilient crops, and energy-efficient brewing. Carlsberg says the goal remains the same: to use science to not just perfect beer, but also improve society.