Quantum Topics Reading Group for fall — apply by Aug. 16
Quantum technologies are rapidly advancing. Although they have recently attracted less media attention than artificial intelligence, these technologies have the potential to disrupt computing, sensing, security, privacy, and materials science in the coming decade(s). As with other powerful technologies, a core challenge is the pursuit of responsible innovation that advances the public good. We believe that this will collaborations across quantum science and engineering, social science, and the humanities.
This fall we invite you to join a Reading Group as a prelude to a UW-Madison “Quantum and Social Science Symposium” on Nov. 16. The reading group will meet six times during the fall 2026 semester. Professors Jason Delborne and Martin Eiermann will serve as co-facilitators. Delborne is associate professor of public affairs with a focus on science and technology policy. Eiermann is assistant professor of sociology with a focus on privacy and technology adoption in public administration. Both are affiliates of the Holtz Center for Science and Technology Studies. Lori Lopez, Associate Dean for Social Sciences and Professor of Communication Arts, is also supporting this initiative.
Our Objectives:
- Create connections among quantum scientists, technology developers, social scientists, and humanists with an interest in the intersection of quantum and society.
- Provide an opportunity for social scientists and humanists to learn fundamental ideas that help define the possible futures of quantum science and technology development.
- Provide an opportunity for quantum scientists and developers to learn fundamental social scientific and humanistic approaches to studying emerging technologies.
- Create the foundation for a future working group to pursue interdisciplinary funding opportunities that span technical and social research in the quantum field.
Schedule and Topics:
Our reading group will meet Tuesdays from 4-5:15pm on the following dates: Sept 8, Sept 15, Sept 29, Oct 13, Oct 27, and Nov 10. We will explore a variety of core quantum concepts; the discourse and framing of the “quantum revolution”; lessons from social science research funded through the National Nanotechnology Initiative; potential impacts of quantum on our economy, security, privacy, and politics; regulatory frameworks and governance of quantum; and developments in ELSI (ethical, legal, and social impacts) research on emerging technologies. We welcome all perspectives and anticipate lively discussions where we will not all agree!
Who Should Join:
The group is open to faculty, staff, and grad students across the university who want to explore the intersections of quantum, social science, and the humanities. We expect that this topic is very new to most participants, and welcome even those who are complete beginners to the world of quantum!
How to Join:
We welcome two levels of participation:
- Core Members commit to attending at least 5 of the 6 sessions, complete all readings in advance, and actively contribute to discussions. We are looking for up to 10 core members, who will each receive $500 in flexible research funds.
- Participants are welcome to attend any session. Readings will be shared in advance and participants are encouraged to join in when the topic is of interest.
To join, please fill out this form by Aug 16.
Sincerely,
Lori Lopez
Martin Eiermann
Jason Delborne