Developing a Quantum Technology Observatory for Policy and Society

Close up of optical cpu process light signal

Photo by AndSus/Adobe Stock

What is the issue?

Quantum technology is recognised as a critical technology globally, attracting substantial attention from industry, academia, governments and civil society. In recent years, there have been significant advancements in the technology’s capabilities, with cutting-edge research and development starting to yield practical solutions that could positively impact people’s lives in areas such as life sciences, finance, aerospace, defence, energy and telecommunications. Across various countries and regions, strategies are being developed, and public, private and third-sector stakeholders are actively exploring ways to drive the growth of quantum technology. Indeed, to mark the centenary of the development of quantum mechanics and to raise awareness of quantum technology, the United Nations has designated 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.

Despite progress, a lack of coordinated overview and actionable insights can make it difficult for decision makers, including policymakers, to fully capitalise on the benefits of quantum technology for society and the economy while mitigating its risks. This gap also creates obstacles for stakeholders in identifying opportunities and addressing broader ecosystem challenges related to skills and workforce development, funding and investment, supply chain resilience, international cooperation and alignment, dual-use capabilities, and governance ambiguities. The complexity, uncertainty and potential risks associated with the technology—for example, concerning the security of encrypted information in the future—demands proactive and informed policy responses.

How are we helping?

Building on our expertise in quantum and wider emerging technology policy research, we are establishing a pilot Quantum Technology Observatory for Policy and Society (QTOPS), an international policy research hub and forum dedicated to discovering, analysing and sharing quantum technology trends and data with the wider community. Through trusted, evidence-based insights and thought leadership, we aim to help stakeholders better understand the quantum technology policy landscape, foster its responsible development and tackle its broader implications for society and policymaking.

Our mission

We seek to empower decision makers and stakeholders to make informed choices, strengthen cooperation across the quantum technology ecosystem, and craft strategies and impact-focused insights that support the growth of quantum technology for societal and economic benefit. QTOPS will offer a comprehensive perspective on a range of quantum technology trends, as well as emerging ecosystem challenges, opportunities and uncertainties. Simply put, we aim to ensure that evidence is at the heart of decision making for the benefit of the quantum and wider emerging technology community.

Conceptualisation of QTOPS

Diagram describing the QTOPS steps through discovery, analysis, sharing, and engagement. Image by RAND Europe

  1. Discover

    Regularly scan a spectrum of sources and engage with stakeholders to identify and prioritise relevant quantum technology developments in key areas (e.g. skills, supply chains, applications, governance).

  2. Analyse

    Structured analysis of these developments that will have key implications for a range of policy areas, stakeholders, sectors and the future direction of quantum technology.

  3. Share

    Act as a hub and trusted point of reference for the quantum and wider emerging technology communities by providing evidence-bases analyses, data and resources through a range of creative outputs.

  4. Engage

    Facilitate dialogue, discussion and debate between stakeholders and act as a forum for sharing facts, information and research on quantum technology policy.

QTOPS will actively identify, understand and monitor key quantum technology trends, serving as a data-driven tool to track and visualise progress in quantum technology. Through our proactive approach and research agenda, QTOPS aims to understand and anticipate quantum technology developments and prepare policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and the public for their potential implications. By providing evidence-based analysis and structured insights, QTOPS will enable us to proactively engage with quantum technology stakeholders across the globe. By combining qualitative insights with quantitative data, we aim to create a holistic view of the quantum technology ecosystem that can drive informed decision making.

Our areas of focus

Our research on quantum technology and its potential impacts is both proactive and focused, aiming to answer key questions relevant to policymakers and government representatives, business and industry leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and society at large. Initially, QTOPS is focusing on research and analysis related to quantum technology education, skills and workforce development. Over time, our efforts will expand to encompass broader topics of interest.

  • Education, skills and workforce development
  • Research and innovation leadership
  • Governance, ethics and responsible innovation
  • Applications, commercialisation and societal impact
  • Security and privacy risks
  • Global cooperation
  • Infrastructure, access and supply chains

Our approach

Our approach blends established, traditional research methods with advanced, state-of-the-art techniques to produce meaningful and impactful quantum technology policy research and analysis. Inspired by RAND Europe’s organisational values, our commitment to making a difference, and building on our strong foundations of conducting high-quality and objective research and analysis, we will leverage our topical and methodological expertise to support the quantum technology community. In addition, we can apply insights from our expertise with other emerging technologies—including AI and biotechnology—and assess the consequences of their interplay with quantum technology.

We will disseminate our findings through a variety of outputs, including reports, commentaries, briefings, interactive data visualisations and evidence submissions. We will also host a series of ongoing webinars, workshops and roundtables to contribute a non-partisan, objective perspective to broader community dialogue, debate and education efforts throughout the quantum technology community. In addition, we will engage with stakeholders from government, supranational organisations, academia, civil society, and both the public and private sectors to share practical insights.

Our track record

From skills and workforce development, supply chain management and international cooperation to public engagement, ethical governance and intersections with other technologies, our research provides actionable insights for stakeholders across the quantum ecosystem.

Some examples of our research

Get involved

QTOPS is a pilot initiative and is designed to evolve based on interest and demand, with the flexibility to adapt to specific needs. Whether you’re a policymaker, researcher, educator, technologist, business leader or interested citizen, QTOPS welcomes your voice. We are keen to partner with stakeholders and engage in discussions to shape the observatory’s development and explore policy needs. For further information or to discuss opportunities for collaboration, please contact us at qtops@randeurope.org.

Explore the pilot QTOPS website to learn more about our ongoing work and initiatives.

QTOPS Team