The 2025 International Year of Quantum Sciences and Technologies marked the centenary of quantum mechanics, aiming to raise public awareness of the influence quantum science and its applications have on all aspects of modern life. The worldwide celebration sparked a wave of grassroots initiatives, preparing the next century of investment in quantum research and development. As quantum technologies become integral to secure communications, energy systems, healthcare, manufacturing, defence, security, and space exploration, they promise to usher in a paradigm shift in technological capabilities.
The research community recognizes that quantum sciences and technologies require a broad and diverse skills setranging from theoretical and experimental physics and chemistry, materials sciences, electrical engineering, computer sciences and more. This is combined with a well-documented shortage of trained professionals to address current and future needs of academia and industry. When we consider societal challenges, gender and geographical divides in the field in terms of leadership, lack of diversity and unequal access to resources also become evident.
With this event we will stimulate a dialogue amongst different stakeholders, aligning with the European Commission’s Quantum Europe Strategy[1]. The main take-away will be concrete actions to empower researchers and decision-makers to create research and innovation environments where people with different disciplines, backgrounds, career paths, identities, and geographies can fully contribute, and be recognised, while maintaining scientific rigour and excellence.
This first day of the 2026 Quantum Week at the European Center for Quantum Sciences aims at tackling two important aspects for the future of quantum sciences and technologies. It will be an open forum for decision-makers, industry, researchers and civil society to:
- reflect about the European Quantum Strategy and the forthcoming EU Quantum Act and their economic and strategic value for the EU autonomy and competitiveness
- address current and future needs for trained professions in academia and industry from the perspective of inclusive leadership
The event is open to all interested participants upon registration. The number of places being limited we suggest registering as soon as possible.
[1] Quantum Europe Strategy 2025. Published by the European Commission.
With the support of
