NPL's strategic partnership universities have been engaged by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) as partners within NPL's operating model. The partnership enables 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.
In January 2015, NPL became a government company, 100% owned by the BEIS. On 1 April 2015, a Partnering Agreement was concluded between BEIS, NPL, the University of Strathclyde and the University of Surrey. Under this arrangement, Government owns NPL's operating company with the expectation that Vice-Chancellors of the two universities sit on the NPL Board alongside BEIS. NPL retains its role, status and international influence as a world-leading National Measurement Institute meeting the UK's needs.
The partnership enables all parties to strengthen both the excellence of their science and their engagement with business. The Universities of Strathclyde and Surrey are leading international higher education institutions whose work has an impact on society and the global economy through pioneering research in priority sectors. They share an enterprising spirit and a strong track record of working with business and industry, achieved by removing barriers between scientific discoveries and commercial applications. Both are well-positioned to have a major positive impact on the future success and growth of NPL.