Google DeepMind is preparing to open its first completely automated science laboratory in the United Kingdom where artificial intelligence systems and robots will carry out most experimental work. Developed in partnership with the UK government, the facility is expected to accelerate the discovery of new materials for batteries, semiconductors, renewable energy, and healthcare technologies. The lab is scheduled to begin operations in 2026.
According to Google, the centre will rely on a robotics driven system capable of synthesising and testing hundreds of material samples every day. DeepMind’s AI models including Gemini will guide the entire process. At present, scientists often spend months manually performing similar experiments. With this new setup, DeepMind says research will move faster with “minimal human intervention,” as AI will decide the next steps and robotic systems will execute the tasks. Human researchers will continue to oversee the work and analyse the findings, ensuring that most routine processes are handed over to machines to speed up scientific discovery. Google stated in its blog post that “a multidisciplinary team of researchers will oversee research in the lab, which will be built from the ground up to be fully integrated with Gemini.”
The automated lab is part of a wider agreement between Google and the UK government aimed at expanding the use of AI in scientific research, public services, and education. Through this partnership, British researchers will receive early access to four of DeepMind’s specialised scientific models including tools used for DNA analysis and weather prediction. Google will also create customised versions of its Gemini AI for use by scientists, educators, and government professionals across the country.
DeepMind expects the new lab to play an essential role in finding entirely new classes of materials that could drive advances in energy production, computing, medical imaging, and semiconductor design. Faster discovery in these areas could support more efficient solar panels, longer lasting batteries, and improved diagnostic technologies.
The collaboration extends well beyond materials science. DeepMind will support the United Kingdom’s efforts in fusion energy by providing AI systems that help with plasma study and reactor optimisation. In the education sector, Gemini based tools are already being tested to reduce administrative tasks for teachers and offer personalised learning support for students. Early trials have shown improvements in both efficiency and problem solving.
To strengthen transparency and safety, DeepMind has also agreed to share selected proprietary models and datasets with the UK’s AI Safety Institute for evaluation. As part of the wider cooperation, the company will help the government improve cyber defence capabilities by using AI tools for automated code analysis and threat detection.
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