£36 million boost for Cambridge supercomputer to transform AI research
Investment to increase capacity sixfold by spring 2026
The University of Cambridge is set to significantly expand the capacity of its supercomputer, increasing its AI research power sixfold through a £36 million investment. The upgraded system is expected to be operational by spring 2026 and will be available free of charge to UK researchers and start-ups.
Currently, the supercomputer supports over 350 projects that are delivering real-world benefits. Researchers have used it to develop AI tools for personalised cancer vaccines, identifying tumour targets for the immune system, and to improve environmental modelling for understanding climate change.
The increased computing capacity aims to drive further advancements, including faster tools for diagnosing diseases earlier, smarter technology for improving public services, and enhanced climate modelling to prepare communities for extreme weather.
Professor Sir John Aston, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University of Cambridge, said:
“This investment marks an important milestone for the UK’s AI Research Resource, expanding the power of Cambridge’s supercomputer and strengthening our national computing ecosystem.
“It will give researchers, clinicians and innovators the tools they need to drive breakthroughs that improve public services. The University of Cambridge is proud to work with industry leaders such as Dell to ensure world-class compute is available to those tackling society’s most complex challenges, helping the UK shape the next generation of AI for public good.”
Government Minister for AI Kanishka Narayan added:
“The UK is home to world-class AI talent, but too often our ambitious researchers and most promising start-ups have been held back by a lack of access to the computing power they need.
"This investment changes that – giving British innovators the tools to compete with the biggest players and develop AI that improves lives, from spotting diseases earlier to helping communities prepare for extreme weather, right across the country."