The University of Exeter has been selected to host a new advanced research hub backed by £19.6m of public and private investment.
MetaHub is a new facility for the development of advanced materials that will be used as parts for next-generation computers, medical sensors and other microscopically designed components.
The site is focused on nanoscale metamaterials, a recently established class of advanced materials that are designed at the molecular level, giving them useful properties for complex technology.
UK Research and Innovation will supply £10.5m to the facility, which has also so far secured £4.5m in private investment and £4.65m from the University of Exeter and other higher education institutions.
“The work happening here in Exeter is a prime example of how cutting-edge research can attract private investment and drive economic growth, in every corner of the UK, which will be critical to our economic mission,” said Science Minister Lord Vallance.
“We are securing the UK’s leadership in the high-potential field of metamaterials, a new class of materials specially engineered to have new and useful properties.
“This work is paving the way for future products and innovations that will deliver jobs and growth, in the years ahead.”
The announcement was made during a visit to Exeter by Vallance.
University of Exeter deputy vice-chancellor Stuart Brocklehurst added: “Our world leading research across many of the hottest areas of science will both help address profound global challenges and create opportunity across the South West.
“It’s been great to welcome Lord Vallance to the University of Exeter to celebrate the work of our researchers and the investment which their work is attracting from public and private sources alike.”
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