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The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a Public Corporation owned by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. As a Public Sector Research Establishment, NPL has a pivotal role in integrating the physical and digital worlds through measurement infrastructure and technologies.
NPL is the UK’s National Metrology Institute (NMI) which provides the cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology that underpins prosperity and quality of life in the UK.
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. We have a partnering agreement with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the University of Strathclyde and the University of Surrey.
NPL has the highest standards of effective governance, corporate values and ethical behaviour overseen by the NPL Management Ltd (NPLML) Board, the Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC) and the NPL Executive team.
The NPL Framework document was drawn up in consultation with UK government and sets out the broad framework with which NPL will operate.
NPL framework document
We have a partnering agreement with the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology, the University of Strathclyde and the University of Surrey.
This strategic partnership is enabling us to work more closely with the academic community and is the basis of our Postgraduate Institute, which is creating the next generation of world-class measurement scientists.
Strategic partners
Postgraduate Institute for Measurement Science
Every year brings with it fresh opportunities and challenges for us here at NPL, and 2022 was no different. Our focus remained on applying our science and engineering expertise to further the innovation landscape in the UK.
The Measure of our Success 2022
We undertake regular economic analysis and evaluation of NPL, the National Measurement System and research and development strategy.
Evidence of impact
Read our previous annual reviews below:
Download The Measure of our Success 2021
Annual Review 2020
Annual Review 2019
Annual Review 2017-18
This plan outlines NPL's priorities for the next five years, focusing on innovation, enduring capability, and inspiring the future. Explore our cutting-edge measurement science, engineering, and technology that underpins the country's prosperity and quality of life.
Download corporate five year plan
Quality
Health, safety and environment
Privacy notice
Terms & conditions
Anti-slavery and ethics policies
Research integrity and governance
We are proud of having a diverse workforce made up of talented individuals of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities.
Statement of investment principles (SIP)
NPL SIP
Annual Engagement Policy Implementation Statement (to 5 April 2021)
Engagement policy
We support all our people who wish to volunteer, through our 'Time Off for Volunteering' scheme. We help our people who engage in large-scale charity fundraising events to make a difference by providing time off and contributing towards their sponsorship.
Corporate social responsibility
NPL Management Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales No. 2937881.
Registered Office: NPL Management Ltd, Hampton Road, Teddington, Middlesex, TW11 0LW, United Kingdom.
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