News · 13 August 2026

UCL gets £8m gift to test if spacetime is quantum with new institute

University College London is creating the David Potter Institute to combine theoretical and experimental physics, funded by an £8 million gift. The institute will investigate if spacetime itself is quantum, a question physicists have long struggled with. Researchers will develop quantum sensors to measure small forces and test competing theories on gravity.

By BriefTea Editorial · 13 August 2026 at 7:03

Reported by EdTech Innovation Hub · How we write briefs

Get the app

Understand this story

What is quantum spacetime? How do they test gravity? Why combine theory and experiment?

More briefs

GeneralSouthern England declared in severe drought across six areas TechnologyTesla's new Roadster: 60 mph in under a second, thanks to SpaceX WorldTrump administration places new sanctions on 26 targets connected to Iran PoliticsChancellor John Healey plans to raise taxes on banks in the October budget BusinessLondon's top shares reach a seven-week high as investors buy safer British businesses GeneralHarry and Meghan visit Nottingham in their first joint public outing since returning Browse all stories →