Warwick Hosts UK's Most Powerful NMR Magnet, Boosting Research Capabilities

Groundbreaking NMR Magnet Installed at University of Warwick's New Facility

In a groundbreaking advancement for scientific research, the University of Warwick has become the proud host of the UK's first 1.2 GHz Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) magnet, thanks to a £17 million grant from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). On the 15th of February, the colossal 10-tonne magnet was carefully craned into a newly constructed facility, marking a significant milestone. This state-of-the-art instrument, one of fewer than 15 globally, is set to revolutionize the way researchers analyze solid structures. Much like an MRI machine, this NMR magnet will enable scientists to investigate atomic-level details with unparalleled precision, surpassing the capabilities of existing NMR technology in the UK.

The new magnet is set to support research in fields like pharmaceuticals, energy storage, and biomaterials. Warwick’s high-field NMR instruments, part of the EPSRC National Research Facility, are already used by over 25 UK universities and industry partners, including AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, and Johnson Matthey. Made by Bruker in Switzerland, the magnet will undergo testing before being available later this year. The facility is being built by Deeley Construction with support from Quantem for project management and surveying.

Professor Steven Brown, the academic lead at The University of Warwick, noted that the new NMR magnet is 20% stronger than the UK's current largest, improving atomic-level analysis of solid structures. As one of fewer than 15 similar magnets worldwide, it places the UK at the forefront of research in pharmaceuticals and energy. He added that, backed by a multi-year UKRI grant, the university will work with UK universities and the private sector to ensure meaningful real-world impacts.

Neil Robinson, Head of the Programme for Research Infrastructure at EPSRC, highlighted that powerful NMR magnets are vital for daily life and technological progress. He called the new UKRI Infrastructure Fund investment an exciting development that will benefit UK researchers across various fields and reinforce the UK's leadership in NMR research. The installation of this advanced NMR magnet solidifies the UK's leadership in scientific research and promises significant advancements across various fields.

Editor's Note:

The installation of the UK's first 1.2 GHz Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) magnet at the University of Warwick marks a significant milestone in the realm of scientific research. Funded by a £17 million grant from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), this advanced instrument promises to revolutionize the analysis of solid structures at an atomic level, benefiting fields such as pharmaceuticals, energy storage, and biomaterials. With fewer than 15 such magnets worldwide, this initiative underscores the UK's commitment to remaining at the forefront of scientific innovation. 

According to Skoobuzz as the magnet undergoes final testing, researchers eagerly anticipate the groundbreaking discoveries and advancements it will enable.