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Monday 3 November marked the official launch of NMI-Q, an international initiative bringing together some of the world’s leading National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) to accelerate the development and adoption of quantum technologies through coordinated development and sharing of measurement best practices in support of future standardisation.
The initiative was launched by Minister Vallance, at ‘Quantum Metrology: from foundations to the future’ event hosted at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in Teddington, as part of the UK’s celebration of the International Year of Quantum.
UK Science Minister, Lord Vallance said: “The potential of quantum technology to boost economic growth and strengthen national security is being increasingly recognised across the world, and we want to unleash that potential here in the UK.
“The UK, working with other G7 nations and Australia, will work together to accelerate the roll-out of quantum technologies across key sectors – from healthcare in new treatments for chronic diseases, to communications with bolstered mobile networks.”
NMI-Q brings together NMIs from the G7 nations including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US, alongside Australia, to form a strategic alliance focused on ensuring that quantum technologies are built on reliable, interoperable, and scalable measurement science.
The initiative will:
Conduct collaborative pre-standardisation research
Develop and share best measurement practices
Support international standards development
Engage with industry, academia, and global stakeholders
Dr Peter Thompson CBE, CEO of NPL said: “Quantum technologies are transforming sectors from secure communications to advanced computing and sensing. NMI-Q ensures these innovations are underpinned by trusted science and metrology, enabling global impact.”
The launch event also convened global experts to discuss the future of quantum technologies and the critical role of metrology in unlocking their full potential. The NMI-Q Steering Committee, is made up of representatives from each founding country, will guide the initiative’s strategic direction and technical priorities.
04 Nov 2025