£19.6mln for Exeter metamaterials hub

The research will develop metamaterials designed at microscopic scale.

The University of Exeter, UK's specialist facility, MetaHub, will receive £19.6mln in public and private backing, announced by UK Science Minister Lord Vallance.

The MetaHub is focused on ‘nanoscale metamaterials’. This could allow components to be created much smaller than current technology allows or perform functions not possible with existing materials.

These materials could have potential for next-generation computer components and radio transmitters for defence systems, diagnostic tools for healthcare, and healthier food colourings.

They are backed by businesses ranging from defence and security firms QinetiQ and Leonardo to multinational drinks manufacturer PepsiCo. 

The government hopes that this investment will lead to innovation that will drive job creation and growth.

£10.5mln of total funding comes from UK Research and Innovation, with a further £4.5mln in private investment. The last pot of money, £4.65mln, comes from the University of Exeter and other higher education institutions. 

Science Minister, Lord Vallance, says, ‘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 at the core of the Plan for Change.