Excellent science and engineering
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is the UK's National Metrology Institute (NMI), developing and maintaining the national primary measurement standards, as well as collaborating with other NMIs to maintain the international system of measurement. As a public sector research establishment, we deliver extraordinary impact by providing the measurement capability that underpins the UK's prosperity and quality of life. We develop the metrology required to ensure the timely and successful deployment of new technologies and work with organisations as they develop and test new products and processes.
In this digital age, our world-leading measurement science provides confidence in data, which enables innovation and international trade to flourish. We align our capabilities with the most important national challenges like energy, health, security, net zero and the prosperity of the nation, and lead major national programmes that deliver impact across the UK.
NPL is a Public Corporation owned by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. We have a partnering agreement with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the University of Strathclyde and the University of Surrey. NPL is part of the National Measurement System (NMS) which provides the UK with a national measurement infrastructure and delivers the UK Measurement Strategy on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.
2025 NMS survey for the life sciences & health sector
NPL begun collating responses to the National Measurement System (NMS) survey for the life sciences & health sector in early 2025. This survey falls under the public interest mandate and is not a marketing survey. The survey is being conducted by external consultants, IFF Research, on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, with an aim to understand the impact of the products and services delivered by the NMS, and identify areas for improvement. If you receive an email or a call regarding this survey in early 2025, please be assured that this correspondence is legitimate, and we encourage you to respond. Read more about the 2025 NMS survey.
If you have any queries please contact:
NPL economist – Dharani Katanguru
External consultant – Emma Vernon
Delivering impact
For people, place, prosperity and planet, we deliver impact with measurement science. Learn more about how our work is helping rise to society’s challenges.
Delivering impact
About our research
World-class research that delivers impact
Our research
About our products and services
Cutting edge, measurement capability to help you innovate and gain a competitive edge.
Our products & services
Providing the UK's measurement capability
Metrology expertise
We are the UK’s National Metrology Institute (NMI), a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology that underpins prosperity and quality of life in the UK. We provide confidence in measurement results and data traceable to SI units.
National Metrology Institute
Who we work with
We work across the entire innovation ecosystem, supporting industry, government and research organisations to achieve their goals.We translate scientific expertise into economic prosperity, skilled employment and impact.
Who we work with
Corporate information
View our management model, annual reviews, financial statements and other information about the organisation
Corporate information
About our people
Over 1,000 scientists, engineers and skilled professionals work together to deliver our exceptional science and engineering. Meet some of our people behind the work we do.
Our people
Catch up on our latest activities, read about our scientific breakthroughs and find out about new products and services.
News
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Impact in Action - NPL Newsletter
Careers
We offer exciting and fulfilling careers. Be the first to hear about job vacancies, apprenticeships or research positions.
Careers
Diversity
The Diversity & Inclusion Task Force at NPL, brings together people from across the organisation to promote employee diversity and inclusivity
Diversity
Impact across the UK
We bring together hundreds of highly skilled scientists, engineers and technicians at locations across the UK to respond to local needs and national challenges.
Locations
International reach
As the UK’s National Metrology Institute, we represent the UK on a number of international committees, organisations and arrangements
International reach
Our history
NPL was established in 1900 with the aim to "bring scientific knowledge to bear practically upon our everyday industrial and commercial life." We have been making world-leading discoveries ever since
Our history
Strategic partners
We have a partnering agreement with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the University of Strathclyde and University of Surrey, enabling us to work more closely with the academic community.
Strategic partners
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Contact us
Our research and measurement solutions support innovation and product development. We work with companies to deliver business advantage and commercial success.
Contact our Customer Services team on +44 20 8943 7070