November 18 2025 -- The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), one of Japan's largest public research organisations dedicated to bridging innovative  with commercialisation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NPL to strengthen collaboration in quantum technology development.

AIST houses the National Metrology Institute of Japan (NMIJ) and the Global Research and Development Centre for Business by Quantum-AI Technology (G-QuAT), focusing on the practical realisation of quantum technologies. This partnership aims to enhance the industrialisation of quantum technologies by leveraging both institutions' expertise and facilities. G-QuAT will work closely with NPL to advance quantum computing and measurement standards.

The collaboration will focus on several key areas:

• Materials for superconducting quantum computers: Conducting joint research on next generation quantum processors and fabricated devices, facilitating staff exchanges to promote synergy in research activities.
• Quantum Computing Applications and Benchmarking: Conducting joint research to advance benchmarking and metrics for quantum computing, as well as development of end user applications.
• Spin Qubits and Single Electron Pumps: Conducting joint research on developing and testing scale-up technologies for electron pumps and spin qubits, including machine learning techniques.
• Standards Development: Contributing to international standards through collaboration and active participation in NMI-Q and IEC-ISO JTC-3.

NPL recognises G-QuAT's expertise and access to diverse technology platforms as valuable assets for this partnership, with both organisations contributing to international standards for quantum, particularly on metrics and benchmarking for quantum computing. The MoU will enable both organisations to craft collaborative.