Quantum Outreach in the Scottish Islands

As part of efforts to expand science engagement in rural areas, IQN Hub’s Professor Erika Andersson has been teaming up with accordionist Karen Tweed to deliver outreach activities that reimagine how quantum science can be shared with non‑specialist audiences. Instead of traditional lectures, the events combine quantum physics with music and poetry, offering new ways to explore and understand complex quantum ideas. 

“Music for a Quantum Landscape”, presented at Orkney International Science Festival, explored connections between quantum physics, place and artistic expression, using live performance to translate scientific ideas into shared cultural experiences. For example, to illustrate quantum superposition, a Nordic folk tune was played on top of a well-known Orcadian tune, with the audience invited to name the tune.  Audience members thought that the music, traditional knitting and poetry made learning about quantum physics very enjoyable, and the performance was praised by the Festival’s main organiser Howie Firth as “one of the finest events in the entire 35-year history of the Festival”, seamlessly combining science and art.   

Erika and Karen also recently took part in North Ronaldsay Science Festival, where audience members reflected on how traditional Orcadian and Finnish knitwear incorporating wave-like patterns, can be seen as an artistic illustration of quantum entanglement. This highlights the power of creative approaches to make abstract scientific concepts more accessible and memorable. During her visit to Orkney, Erika also gave a talk to high-school students at Stromness Academy.  

By taking quantum science directly to island communities, research engagement can move beyond urban centres and traditional formats, creating meaningful connections between advanced science and local culture. 

More information can be found here: https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/09/27/music-for-a-quantum-landscape-orkney-international-science-festival/