Peter Thompson

Dr Peter Thompson FREng FInstP FRSC is CEO of NPL, the UK’s National Metrology Institute (NMI), widely regarded as one of the leading NMIs in the world. Peter joined NPL as CEO in 2015 and has overseen the laboratory’s development and growth in recent years aligned to the UK’s National Challenges. This has included providing strategic leadership and oversight of NPL-led programmes including the Cancer Research UK Rosetta Cancer Grand Challenge, National Timing Centre programme, Quantum programme, Measurement for Recovery programme and the Advanced Machinery and Productivity initiative.

Peter holds a number of international advisory positions, including on the International Advisory Board of the National Institute of Metrology (NIM) in China, as well as advising nationally in areas such as the National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP).

Peter brings a passion for diversity and inclusion in science and engineering and a focus on maximising impact for end users. His previous roles include strategic advisor to MOD’s Chief Scientific Adviser, Board Member and Deputy Chief Executive of Dstl and Head of the Counter Terrorism, Science and Technology Centre.

Peter is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, the recipient of two MOD Chief Scientific Advisor Commendations and the US NIMUC award.