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Research

Quantum technologies

From science fiction to reality

We are harnessing quantum science to create next generation devices

NPL plays a major role across the whole of the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme by providing industry access to our technical measurement capabilities and expertise to develop and secure the supply chain from SMEs to large corporations, supporting the development of standards that will underpin the emerging industry and developing the short and long term skills pipeline that will be needed as the industry grows.

Underpinning all our work supporting the UK quantum industry, are our technical capabilities, the combination of expertise and facilities that allow us to make the measurements that help quantum innovators characterise and validate their technologies, and which underpin emerging standards.

These capabilities draw on decades of world class experience making traceable measurements of materials, electronics, timing, and fundamental physics. These are being deployed, advanced and reinvented to meet the specific needs of the quantum industry in building and applying quantum computers, sensors, imaging and communication technologies.

This research, along with Time and frequency research, forms part of the wider quantum activities in NPL known as the Quantum Metrology Institute.

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Quantum materials

Our research is building confidence in quantum materials and unlocking new applications.

Quantum materials

Quantum sensors

Our research enables quantum sensors to be used for precision measurements of gravity, inertial forces and magnetic fields.

Quantum sensors

Quantum computing

Our research leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to solve complex problems.

Quantum computing

Quantum communications

Our research develops quantum devices and phenomena for communications and networking.

Quantum communications

Quantum electrical metrology

Our research is on the latest devices and techniques to realise and disseminate the SI units for current, voltage and resistance.


Quantum electrical metrology

Our services

We help industry and researchers commercialise and deliver quantum technologies and new devices. We work to ensure reproducible and standardised processes, and provide test and evaluation to accelerate and increase confidence in quantum products.

Graphene and 2D materials

Quantum technologies

Nanoprobe facilities

NPL's quantum capabilities for industry

Below we list some of the quantum capabilities which NPL has developed to support UK industry in the development of new products and services based on quantum technologies.

Quantum capabilities

Meet the team

We have over 50 internationally-recognised researchers focused on quantum, and we are training the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers; developing the capabilities of apprentices, technicians, undergraduates and postgraduates.
View our team

Case study

Increasing the scalability of cryogenic interconnects for quantum computing

Article

Case study

Independent verification of novel heart disorder diagnostic device 

Article

Case study

Commercialising the 2D material set to transform electronics

Article

Case study

Independent Security Evaluation of Toshiba Quantum Key Distribution Technology

Article

Emerging technologies

NPL drives science and innovation collaboration across industry, academia, and government, focusing on emerging technologies. Our leading role in the National Quantum Programme, National Timing Centre Programme, and AI Standards Hub reinforces the UK's aim to be a science superpower by 2030.

As a national laboratory, we build confidence in new technologies, shaping the nation's readiness through standards, skills, and investment.

Emerging technologies