The Alan Turing Institute, the UK's leading artificial intelligence research body, has been ordered to implement 'significant' changes following a review by its primary taxpayer-funded backer, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The review, announced on Wednesday, found that the institute's strategic alignment and value for money were 'not yet satisfactory'.
UKRI, which awarded the institute a £100 million five-year funding package in 2024, said the review highlighted a need for clearer strategic focus and improved delivery. The findings come after The Guardian revealed last week that the institute's board had been reminded of its legal duties by the Charity Commission following a whistleblower complaint.
Professor Charlotte Deane, who oversees UKRI's AI programme, said: 'This review recognises the value and potential of the Alan Turing Institute, but also makes clear that significant change is needed in some areas.' She added that achieving the UK's AI ambitions required institutions 'that are focused, effective and aligned to national need'.
The government had already signalled last summer that it expected a strategic overhaul, with a shift in focus towards defence and national security, downgrading work on health and the environment. The institute's chief executive, Jean Innes, stepped down in September after a staff revolt, while chair Doug Gurr resigned this week to become permanent chair of the Competition and Markets Authority.
UKRI will now work with the institute and its new chief executive, George Williamson, who has a national security background, to implement the review's recommendations. These include strengthening governance and placing defence and security at the core of the institute's work. An institute spokesperson said it had tightened its focus and governance but acknowledged it needed to go 'faster and further'.
