AI and data science expansion for Defence Science & Technology Laboratory

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is creating a new unit based at the National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) in Newcastle.

The NICD seeks to address the shortage of data analytics skills in the UK and helps companies and organisations to exploit data. Dstl will be able to access NICD’s ecosystem of non-traditional small and medium-sized enterprise suppliers to help solve defence and security data challenges.

"This is a really exciting opportunity to leverage innovation, create jobs and business opportunities, and contribute to the government’s ‘levelling up’ ambitions," said Paul Kealey, the Dstl Division Head responsible for the new team. "It will support the UK to achieve its vision as a great science power by tapping in to the diverse pool of regional talent and highly skilled businesses."

A member of Dstl’s Executive team, Kealey leads a team which maintains and develops a range of capabilities needed to support Defence in data, cyber, C4ISR and space related areas, both now and in the future. He has a PhD in physics from the University of Birmingham.

The establishment of the team in Newcastle will provide Dstl with greater resilience, capacity and diversity in artificial intelligence and data science, which is a critical area for the UK and in increasing demand. The move demonstrates Dstl’s commitment to supporting the levelling up agenda and increase collaboration with universities and non-traditional SME suppliers.

The NICD is supported by Newcastle University which, along with other regional universities, offers a diverse pool supply of suitably qualified potential staff.