The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) has taken a position on the advisory board of a new London Quantum Cluster, a consortium aimed at positioning the capital as a global hub for quantum technology.
The cluster brings together NPL, University College London, Imperial College London, and King’s College London with businesses, government, investors, and local communities. The initiative, first announced in May 2025, is being seeded with a £500,000 investment from the Mayor of London via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, part of the city’s long-term economic growth strategy.
Dr Cyrus Larijani, Head of Quantum Programme at NPL, will provide scientific expertise and industry insights as a member of the cluster’s advisory board. NPL’s involvement is expected to support the commercialisation of quantum research, foster startups and spinouts, and unlock wider economic benefits for London and the UK, in line with the UK National Quantum Technology Programme.
The United Nations has designated 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Quantum technologies are also highlighted in the London Growth Plan, published in February 2025, which aims to grow the city’s economy by £107 billion by 2035 and create 150,000 high-value jobs by 2028.
NPL will contribute via its Measurement for Quantum (M4Q) programme, which helps businesses overcome technical barriers by providing access to specialist science and engineering expertise at no cost. Since its inception, M4Q has delivered 71 projects, with 63% of participating companies reporting a moderate or significant increase in commercial opportunities.
The cluster seeks to make London a leading global destination for quantum startups and businesses while fostering regional and international collaboration. It aims to develop pan-European supply chains, strengthen UK leadership in quantum, and support similar ecosystems across the country and continent.
NPL is also coordinating UK involvement in emerging international quantum standards and developing methodologies to characterise quantum technologies, underpinning future product specifications.
Dr Larijani said: “Our involvement in the London Quantum Cluster is a landmark moment for NPL. This is a unique opportunity to advance scientific discovery, drive economic growth, and integrate city investment with the UK and international quantum industry. I also look forward to engaging with schools and educators to cultivate the next generation of talent for our quantum ecosystem.”
