CoSTAR National Lab

About Us

The National Lab is the central hub of the CoSTAR Network, a £75,6m investment from UKRI Infrastructure Fund and delivered by Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). This is infrastructure that combines state-of-the-art facilities, technology research and an exciting series of industry and academic partnerships to fuel creative industries growth across the UK.

The National Lab collaborates, innovates and experiments across the UK’s screen and performance sectors, supporting UK creative companies to innovate and grow ethically, sustainably, and inclusively. Our flagship CoSTAR Stage at Pinewood Studios will open in January 2026, placing R&D at the heart of UK’s globally recognised home of storytelling.

We offer a unique collaboration between industry and academia. Founded on the world-class research and expertise of Royal Holloway, University of London, Abertay University, the University of Surrey and the National Film and Television School. The National Lab is powered by a growing set of partnerships with leading creative businesses including Pinewood, BT, and Disguise.

The National Lab is led by the StoryFutures team at Royal Holloway, University of London. The National Lab represents an unparalleled opportunity to nurture the UK’s creative technology sector and to invest in the experiences and stories of tomorrow.

Where
Pinewood Studios, Iver, Buckinghamshire and Futures Studio, Egham, Surrey

Led by:
Royal Holloway, University of London

Partners:
Pinewood
 Studios Abertay University University of Surrey National Film and Television School Disguise
 BT