A large number of questions can be investigated in the area of life science by means of neutron scattering. Using diffraction experiments the position of atoms (structure determination, especially position of hydrogen atoms) as well as particle sizes of clusters (proteins, fat) and layer structures (membranes, thin films) can be investigated.

Concerning the investigation of the morphology of clusters in vivo equivalent conditions are of major importance. By means of contrast variation (exchange of H₂O/D₂O) specific components can be distinguished or masked.

Experiments using inelastic neutron scattering can investigate the movement of bio-molecules. Again special preparation techniques allows to distinguish different movements in highly complex proteins which are decisive for their biological functionality. Furthermore experiments on thin films by means of neutron reflectometry can study biological membranes or polymer films.