The Science Department has been formally established, taking custody of the Network's reference standards of measurement, and today launches its official website at science.gov.vin.
Laboratories and advice
- National Laboratories
Six laboratories at the principal sites of the Network, opening between 7 and 11 September 2026.
- Reference Standards and Calibration
The Network's reference standards of measurement, and the calibration of instruments for member organisations.
- Scientific Advice
Advice to member organisations and departments, prepared through five standing advisory committees.
- Statistics
The Department's first statistical release and the schedule of quarterly reporting.
- Frequently asked questions
How to submit a sample, have an instrument calibrated or request advice from the Department.
Latest announcements
All news- Science Department Announces Six National Laboratories
Six national laboratories at the principal sites of the Network will open between Monday 7 September and Friday 11 September 2026. The laboratory register is published from today.
- Science Department Appoints Standing Advisory Committees
Five standing committees of scientists and engineers are appointed to prepare the Department's scientific advice. The first sittings are held from 28 September 2026.
- Science Department Publishes First Statistical Release
The Department's first statistical release covers the transition period from 10 August to 5 September 2026: 7,340 samples analysed, 2,414 instruments calibrated and 41 written advices issued.
About the Department
The Science Department of the Velocity Interoperability Network is responsible for the national laboratories of the Network, for the reference standards of measurement, and for scientific advice to member organisations and departments.
It operates six laboratories at the principal sites, calibrates the instruments on which member organisations rely, and publishes the environmental measurements recorded across the Network.
Milestones
6 September 2026
Department established
Responsibility for the national laboratories, the Network's reference standards of measurement and scientific advice passed to the Department.
6 September 2026
science.gov.vin launched
Press releases, the register of national laboratories and guidance on the Department's services published on the official website.
6 September 2026
Laboratory network and committees confirmed
Six national laboratories open between 7 and 11 September, five standing advisory committees are appointed, and the first statistical release is published.
Forthcoming
Proficiency testing and quarterly reporting
The first inter-laboratory proficiency round in November 2026 and the first quarterly statistical report, covering the quarter ending 30 September 2026, will be announced in the Newsroom.