The UK government is working with Google DeepMind through a non-legally binding memorandum of understanding to use artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate scientific breakthroughs and smarter government services.
It includes the potential of a new artificial intelligence system, Gemini for Government, which the government hopes will cut bureaucracy, automate routine tasks and free up civil servants to focus on improving services for people.
As part of the partnership, Google DeepMind said its existing advanced artificial intelligence models will be made available to UK scientists. These include tools such as AlphaGenome, which uses AI to sequence strands of DNA and identify potential weaknesses; and a co-scientist in artificial intelligence, supporting researchers in generating new theories and research proposals.
DeepMind describes these tools as operating like an artificial intelligence microscope, designed to support scientific discovery and enable researchers to solve problems of unprecedented complexity and scale. For example, the AlphaFold tool, which predicts the structure of proteins, has already advanced work in a number of areas such as crop resistance and antimicrobial resistance.
Education is another possible use case. Google DeepMind said it plans to develop a version of Gemini based on the national curriculum. He said he also supports research into AI in education and its impact on teaching and learning.
Discussing the partnership, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “This partnership will allow us to use developments in artificial intelligence for public good, so that everyone benefits.
“This means using AI to solve everyday problems, such as reducing energy bills with cheaper, cleaner energy and making our public services more efficient so taxpayers' money is spent on what matters most to people.”
The partnership will see DeepMind open its first automated research laboratory in the UK next year. The Labor Party hopes the move will strengthen the country's position as a global leader in science and technology.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: “DeepMind is a great example of what UK-US technology collaboration can deliver – a firm with roots on both sides of the Atlantic, supporting UK innovators to shape the curve of technological advancement.”
The lab uses Google's Gemini engine to provide artificial intelligence and robotics for new discoveries and experiments. The main focus of the new laboratory will be the development of superconducting materials capable of conducting electricity with zero resistance. The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology said such superconductors could be used in low-cost medical imaging and help ensure the next generation of computer chips are more energy efficient.
Demis Hassabisco-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind, said: “AI has incredible potential to drive a new era of scientific discovery and improve everyday life. We are 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.”
Partnership marks Google's latest support British technology and science sector. Over the summer, the company announced it would help modernize the government's aging IT.
Google has also invested £5 billion to support the UK's artificial intelligence infrastructure and research efforts, announced ahead of US President Donald Trump's state visit.
