Date & location: Friday 5 June 2026, ARC Studio 2, University of Glasgow
Quantum technologies are reshaping supply chains, financial systems, industrial policy, security, and global geopolitics. But the social, political, and economic dimensions of this transformation remain seriously underexplored.
This one-day research sandpit brings together quantum technology researchers and social scientists to do something about that. Hosted at the University of Glasgow and co-organised by the Quantum ARC, the Political Economy Futures Forum (PEFF), and the Social Studies of Deep Tech project, the day is designed around structured but open conversation across disciplinary boundaries.
Through a series of themed discussion stations, short provocations, and a closing panel, participants will explore the political economy of quantum: from sovereignty and industrial strategy to regulation, infrastructure, and finance. The goal is more than a good day’s conversation: it’s the beginning of real collaborative research.
The Quantum ARC has £10,000 seed funding pots available for new interdisciplinary projects, and the team is actively looking to support genuinely collaborative grant applications.
As this is an interactive sandpit, come ready to think, talk, and find your collaborators!
Register interest here before Monday 18th May, 5pm. Places are limited.
Quantum-alliance@glasgow.ac.uk 