By Melissa Heikkilä
Publication Date: 2025-12-11 00:01:00
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Google DeepMind will establish its first “automated science laboratory” in the UK, as it signs a new partnership with the British government in a move designed to enhance the use of artificial intelligence across the country.
The US big tech group’s AI unit, run by British Nobel laureate Sir Demis Hassabis, announced on Thursday that it would set up the new materials science lab in 2026.
The lab will focus on using AI tools to develop new materials for superconductors, solar cells and semiconductors. DeepMind will also provide local scientists with “priority access” to its scientific AI tools.
“We think that AI systems are now ready to bridge the gap between digital and actually discovering new materials,” said Pushmeet Kohli, DeepMind’s vice-president for science and strategic initiatives.
DeepMind also signed a memorandum of understanding with…



