The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in Teddington will be opening its doors next month to showcase some of the world’s leading research to the public.

The lab, which opens every two years to give people a sneak peak, is the UK’s national measurement institute. The NPL will be donating all funds raised on the open day to Cancer Research UK.

Scientists at the NPL work tirelessly to create more effective cancer treatments, to make new antibiotics to tackle resistance, to secure quantum communications and superfast 5G- “technological advances must be built on a foundation of reliable measurement to succeed”.

Visitors to the lab in Bushy Park can learn how scientists measure aspects of the world around us, from time and temperature, to cosmic rays and climate change.

Richmond and Twickenham Times:

A presentation at the last open day

Mary Harrison, head of marketing at NPL, said: “NPL’s measurements affect each and every one of us, but it’s not always clear what this means.

“The open house event will give the public an opportunity to learn about some of the world leading research that goes on at NPL and a chance to meet the scientists behind it all.

“All proceeds from this event will go to CRUK and not only will it will be a fantastic day for the whole family, but it will offer everyone a chance to learn something interesting about how measurement impacts their everyday lives.”

The NPL was founded in 1900 “for standardising and verifying instruments, for testing materials, and for the determination of physical constants” and is one of the oldest labs of its kind in the world.

The open day will be held on May 17.

Tickets are £3 for adults and free for under 16s. To book go here