The Alan Turing Institute 20/21 - 21/22

The Alan Turing Institute is the UK’s national hub for data science and artificial intelligence, housing over 500 researchers who work on everything from fundamental algorithms to real-world applications. This matters because the UK lacks a single, coordinated centre to lead AI research, train new scientists, and shape public understanding of data-driven technologies. Without such an institute, advances in AI risk being fragmented across universities and companies, slowing progress and limiting societal benefits. If the Institute succeeds, it could transform how AI is developed and deployed across the economy. Its research already touches systems most people rarely think about: supply chains, energy grids, medical diagnostics, and public-sector decision-making. By training a new generation of scientists and partnering with industry, government, and charities, the Institute aims to ensure that AI improves infrastructure, public services, and manufacturing processes rather than just consumer products. The work is a mix of fundamental science—advancing the mathematical and computational foundations of AI—and applied research. Past fundamental work in computing, such as Turing’s own theoretical breakthroughs, led to technologies that now underpin everyday life. This Institute continues that tradition.