About Dstl - The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is the centre of scientific excellence for the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD). It provides impartial scientific and technological (S&T) advice to the UK Armed Forces and British Government.

Dstl’s Purpose:

•  To maximise the use of S&T for the defence and security of the UK

Dstl delivers world-class independent scientific advice, defence research, specialist technical services and the ability to track global technological developments, all on behalf of the MoD. This capability is delivered by some of the nation’s most talented and creative scientists. The organisation has core expertise and capabilities across a multitude of disciplines, strengthened by trusted partnerships with academia and industry. Dstl generates considerable intellectual property in specialist areas such as biotechnology, healthcare, material science and telecommunications.

Dstl’s Role:

•  Supplying sensitive and specialist S&T services for MOD and wider government
•  Providing and facilitating expert advice, analysis and assurance to aid decision making and to support MOD and wider government to be an informed customer
•  Leading the formulation, design and delivery of a coherent and integrated MOD S&T programme using industrial, academic and government resources
•  Managing and commercialising knowledge across the wider defence and security community, and understanding S&T risks and opportunities through horizon scanning
•  Acting as a trusted interface between MOD, wider government, the private sector, academia and allies to support military co-operation, capability delivery, diplomacy and economic policy
•  Championing and developing S&T skills across MOD, including managing the careers of MOD scientists

In line with government policy of realising the economic benefits of public sector research, Ploughshare Innovations was established to bring publicly available technological achievements to market. Historically, defence research has produced many advances including supersonic air travel, liquid crystal displays and infrared detectors.

With more than 30 patent applications arising from leading edge research programmes every year, Dstl is actively pursuing the Government policy, via Ploughshare, of releasing the economic potential of Public Sector Research Establishments (PSREs) through the transfer of good ideas, research results and skills to business and ultimately the UK taxpayer.

For further details about Dstl, please visit their web site at www.dstl.gov.uk