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About us

NPL provides the measurement capability that underpins the UK's prosperity and quality of life

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.

Our research

World-class research that delivers impact

Our research

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

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

News

Catch up on our latest activities, read about our scientific breakthroughs and find out about new products and services.

News

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Measure Up

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
 

Work with 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