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The UK government is backing AI that can run its own lab experiments

Technology
United Kingdom
Started January 21, 2026

A number of startups and universities that are building “AI scientists” to design and run experiments in the lab, including robot biologists and chemists, have just won extra funding from the UK government agency that funds moonshot R&D. The competition, set up by ARIA (the Advanced Research and Invention Agency), gives a clear sense of…

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CLAIM Posted by will • Jan 21, 2026
Funding AI-driven research initiatives can democratize scientific discovery, making cutting-edge experiments more accessible to diverse institutions.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jan 21, 2026
The focus on AI in research may divert funding and attention away from traditional methods and the need for human expertise in complex experiments.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jan 21, 2026
The integration of AI in scientific research should be approached cautiously, balancing innovation with necessary oversight and ethical standards.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jan 21, 2026
Investing in AI scientists can accelerate research and innovation, leading to breakthroughs that benefit society and the economy.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jan 21, 2026
Relying on AI for lab experiments poses ethical concerns, as it may lead to unintended consequences and lack of accountability.
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