Quantum in the Quad 2026: From Lab to Frontline Support – Dual‑Use Quantum Innovation Showcase
Join Oxfordshire’s Regional Defence and Security Cluster (OBC‑RDSC) and the Oxfordshire Cybersecurity Cluster (OxCyber CIC) for an evening exploring the security implications of quantum technologies as they move from research labs into real applications. Part of OxTech Week 2026, this second edition of Quantum in the Quad spotlights real‑world demonstrators, dual‑use innovation, and the operational impact of quantum capabilities.
Quantum technology is reshaping the security landscape far beyond the familiar “cybersecurity-breaking” narrative. Advances in quantum sensing, timing, secure communications, navigation, and detection are starting to influence how we build, operate, and secure the systems our society depends on every day.
Quantum in the Quad 2026 brings together innovators, users, security practitioners, and researchers to explore how quantum capabilities are transitioning into practical security tools — and what this means for the future of the UK and society.
Agenda
Lightning Talks – 60m (max 10m each)
Fast, focused insights on:
Quantum‑enhanced situational awareness
Precision timing and navigation as GPS‑denied alternatives
Secure quantum communications and architectures
Introduction of quantum systems into real‑world security operations
Cybersecurity considerations and quantum‑safe cryptography
Networking -15m as we transition to demos and refreshments
Networking continues with demos around the room – 45m, We invite hands‑on demos from 4-5 from quantum innovators, including:
TBC
Fireside Chat: “From Lab to Frontline – Deploying Quantum Capabilities for Security.
Panellists – TBC
A candid conversation exploring:
What defence users actually need from quantum technologies
The practical, ethical, and strategic realities of deployment
How to bridge TRL gaps for operational readiness
The dual‑use challenge: export controls, standards, and commercialisation
Where quantum creates security advantage versus security risk
Why Attend?
A security‑driven framing of quantum technologies
Insights from real practitioners
A platform spotlighting innovators ready for defence engagement
Opportunities for cross‑cluster collaboration between cyber, defence, and quantum communities
A flagship moment for OxTech Week 2026
Close out with 30m of networking.
If you are working in security, cyber, R&D, innovation policy, or emerging tech — this event will give you a clear, grounded picture of the security impacts of quantum systems.
By signing up to this event you agree to share your details with the OxTechWeek team. This event is part of Ox Tech Week (26-29 May 2026) - a citywide celebration of technology and innovation in Oxford, UK. If you would like to already receive occasional updates about OxTechWeek subscribe here. Please note that by signing up to this event you acknowledge that it is organised separately from the OTW team and falls solely under the responsibility and liability of the partner organisation.