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National challenges

Our science and engineering makes a difference to some of the biggest national and international challenges

Impact and influence on industry and society

NPL undertakes excellent science and engineering to deliver extraordinary impact for the UK and provide the measurement capability that underpins the UK's prosperity and quality of life. Our expertise is crucial in researching, developing and testing new products and processes. 

NPL is the UK's National Metrology Institute. We develop and maintain the national primary measurement standards, provide the national measurement infrastructure and deliver the UK Measurement Strategy on behalf of the UK government’s Department for Science, Innovation & Technology.

Metrology improves the effectiveness and efficiency of science and trust in its outcomes, which in turn unlocks the potential of innovation, allowing faster routes to market. Evidence-based policy, regulation and decision making are heavily reliant on measurements and data, and NPL is key in providing and digitising that measurement infrastructure.  

NPL works in four strategic areas, which align with the UK’s current and future requirements.

Prosperity

Delivering measurement solutions to maximise innovation and prosperity in advanced manufacturing

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Security and resilience

Managing the risks to our national security and resilience infrastructure so that we can go about our daily lives with confidence

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Environment

Science-led measurement solutions for environment climate action and a sustainable future

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Health

Supporting healthcare, life science and the bioeconomy

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National Challenges team

We have a multi-disciplinary team with a broad range of experience who work closely with Government, industry to tackle the challenges facing our society.

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Making an impact on UK industry and society

Using metrology, or measurement science, NPL can make a real difference. Our programmes are based on extensive feedback from customers, government and technical experts, and draw upon NPL’s Foresighting activity which informs our long-term thinking. They address:

  • The high-level societal challenges, such as supporting economic growth, improving healthcare or addressing climate change.
  • The technical challenges that are key to enabling progress in that area.
  • The measurement challenges which need to be solved.

Measuring our impact

We conduct economic assessments of all research and development programmes led by NPL as well as the activities delivered through the National Measurement System. View some recent NPL reports:

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

Make a general enquiry