Exploring public attitudes to quantum computing

Quantum conversations – exploring public attitudes to quantum computing

The Quantum Computing and Simulation (QCS) Hub has launched a major new public dialogue exercise, aimed at understanding public perceptions of quantum computing across the UK. 

The UK has had a National Programme in Quantum Technologies since 2014 and has a rich and vibrant quantum technology ecosystem, with four academically led quantum technology hubs as a key part of this. The Quantum Computing and Simulation Hub is one of the Hubs, and is a 17 University partnership, undertaking leading research in quantum computing hardware and software, as well as extensive outreach and engagement efforts.

A public dialogue activity exploring views about quantum technologies was last conducted in 2017. The QCS Hub, working with the Responsible Technology Institute, has now commissioned Verian, an independent research company, to carry out a public dialogue exploring public attitudes to quantum computing. The dialogue will create the opportunity to bring together the public and researchers to have in-depth informed discussions about quantum computing and what the creation of this technology could mean for the UK. It will explore public perceptions of quantum computing, including its potential applications in areas including healthcare, logistics, engineering, and finance. It will also examine any social or ethical concerns the public may have around its use

We are very pleased to collaborate with the Responsible Technology Institute and Verian in helping to deliver this major public dialogue. Quantum computing is beginning to emerge as a useful technology, and as part of this process its important that we engage as widely as possible, as part of our work on responsible technology development.

The dialogue involves two stages of research. Firstly, an online survey conducted with around 1,000 people from across the UK to measure awareness of and attitudes to quantum computing. Secondly, 40 people from across the UK will take part in four online workshops to have discussions with quantum computing experts about their work and what the development of this technology could mean for our society. The people who take part will be a diverse and inclusive group, reflecting key demographics of the UK population, including a range of ages and ethnicities from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The resulting report and analysis will be a rich source of information for researchers and those involved in the field to consider as quantum computing continues to advance. The Hub will ensure the outputs of the dialogue are shared with policy makers and other members of the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme, and it is hoped that the dialogue will also help inform and shape the outreach and engagement activities of future phases of the programme.

Dr Amy Busby, Senior Director at Verian, commented, “It is fantastic that our Qualitative practice is working with the QCS Hub to create a safe and supportive space for members of the public to talk about the benefits and risks associated with quantum computing. This will help ensure the citizen voice is heard and the public’s concerns are considered as part of the ongoing development of this technology in the UK.”

Professor Dominic O’Brien, Director of the Quantum Computing and Simulation Hub added, “We are very pleased to collaborate with the Responsible Technology Institute and Verian in helping to deliver this major public dialogue. Quantum computing is beginning to emerge as a useful technology, and as part of this process its important that we engage as widely as possible, as part of our work on responsible technology development. We look forward to results that will form a valuable resource for the Hub and the wider quantum technology community.”