UK NPL Delegation Visits KRISS

▲ Group photo with the UK NPL delegation

On February 26, a delegation from the National Physical Laboratory (NPL*) in the UK, consisting of experts in the quantum and semiconductor fields, visited KRISS.

 

* NPL: National Physical Laboratory (the UK’s National Metrology Institute, established in 1900, is one of the oldest metrology institutes in the world, responsible for the country’s standards of measurement)

  

The UK NPL delegation visited Korea as part of an exploration study on the role of national metrology institutes (NMIs) in the convergence of semiconductor and quantum sectors. Their visit to KRISS was focused on discussing collaboration in the quantum field.

▲ Introduction to the research status in the quantum and semiconductor fields

Dr. Choi Jae Hyuk, Director of the Quantum Technology Institute at KRISS, introduced "KRISS’s research areas in quantum technology, major research achievements, and future plans." Following this, the NPL delegation provided an overview of their research in the fields of quantum communication, quantum materials, quantum computing, and semiconductor equipment.

▲ Quantum Field Discussion Session

During the following discussion session, specific details of the research areas were introduced, and discussions were held on topics such as the role of National Metrology Institutes (NMIs), collaboration with industries, and more.

 

The NPL delegation was impressed by KRISS’s research activities, particularly the development of quantum computers. They explained, however, that NPL focuses more on supporting the industry through measurement rather than directly developing quantum computers. Dr. Choi Jae Hyuk explained, "Currently, Korea is providing strong government-led support for the growth of the quantum industry, and KRISS is advancing quantum industry support and quantum computer development through its measurement standards technologies."

 

Following this, the delegation visited the Center for Superconducting Quantum Computing Systems and the Quantum Magnetic Sensing Group to continue their discussions.

▲ Quantum field lab tour

Since 2024, the UK NPL has visited KRISS three times and has consistently expressed its intention to continue collaboration in the quantum field. Additionally, they proposed adding topics such as "Quantum for Measurement Standards and Measurement Standards for Quantum" to the MOU between the two institutions. The signing of the revised MOU is expected at the 150th anniversary of the Metre Convention.

 

This visit is expected to further strengthen the research collaboration between the two institutions in the quantum field.