The UK and Google DeepMind have signed a deal which will give British scientists priority access to some of the most advanced AI tools in the world.
Google DeepMind will open open its first automated research lab in the UK next year.
Run by a team of researchers, automated labs harness technology and robotics to push forward cutting-edge work.
The lab will use artificial intelligence and robotics to power new discoveries and run experiments. It will focus particularly on developing new cutting-edge superconductor materials which can carry electricity with zero resistance.
New superconductors could be used to deliver low-cost medical imaging and other new material discoveries could help to ensure the next generation of computer chips are more efficient as they power the next wave of breakthroughs while supporting lower overall running costs.
Google DeepMind will work with the government and UK scientific community on cutting-edge AI-enabled research in areas like fusion energy, which could lead to cheaper and greener energy.
A new AI system, Gemini for Government, has the potential to cut bureaucracy, automate routine tasks, and free up civil servants.
Google DeepMind will work to develop a version of Gemini to help teachers focus on teaching. This would be grounded in the national curriculum and tested for safe use.
Google DeepMind will also work with the UK's AI Security Institute on foundational research in key areas to help ensure AI is developed safely and benefits everyone.
As part of the deal, UK scientists will be given priority access to Google DeepMind’s existing cutting-edge AI models as part of the deal, harnessing some of the world’s most powerful tech to deliver their work. This would include tools like AlphaGenome, which uses AI to sequence strands of DNA and spot potential weaknesses which could lead to disease.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "This partnership will make sure we harness developments in AI for public good so that everyone feels the benefits.
"That means using AI to tackle everyday challenges like cutting energy bills thanks to cheaper, greener energy and making our public services more efficient so that taxpayers’ money is spent on what matters most to people.
"This is national renewal in action – driving innovation to make our country stronger and fairer for everyone."
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: "DeepMind serves as the perfect example of what UK-US tech collaboration can deliver - a firm with roots on both sides of the Atlantic backing British innovators to shape the curve of technological progress.
"This agreement could help to unlock cleaner energy, smarter public services, and new opportunities which will benefit communities up and down the country.
"Science and technology are at the heart of our mission to drive a new era of national renewal – and partnerships like this will help us go further, faster."
