Google DeepMind, the tech giant’s AI unit, unveiled plans for its first “automated research lab” in the U.K. as it signs a partnership that could lead to the company deploying its latest models in the country.
The AI company will open the lab, which will use AI and robotics to run experiments, in the U.K. next year. It will focus on developing new superconductor materials, which can be used to develop medical imaging tech, alongside new materials for semiconductors.
British scientists will gain “priority access” to some of the world’s most advanced AI tools under the partnership, the U.K. government said in its announcement.
Founded in London in 2010 by Nobel prize winner Demis Hassabis, DeepMind was acquired by Google in 2014, but has retained a large operational base in the U.K. The company has made several breakthroughs considered crucial to advancing AI technology.
The partnership could also lead to DeepMind working with the government on AI research in areas like nuclear fusion and deploying its Gemini models across government and education in the U.K, the government 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,” said U.K. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall in a statement.
“This agreement could help to unlock cleaner energy, smarter public services, and new opportunities which will benefit communities up and down the country,” she said.
“AI has incredible potential to drive a new era of scientific discovery and improve everyday life,” said Hassabis.
“We’re excited to deepen our collaboration with the UK government and build on the country’s rich heritage of innovation to advance science, strengthen security, and deliver tangible improvements for citizens.”
The U.K. has been racing to sign deals with major tech companies as it tries to build out its AI infrastructure and public deployment of the technology, since the publication of a national strategy for AI in January.
Microsoft, Nvidia, Google and OpenAI announced plans to funnel over $40 billion of investment into new AI infrastructure in the country in September, during a state visit by U.S. President Donald Trump.
