The Quantum, and Nano Technologies Winter School is a dedicated educational programme held as part of SM²Q-2026 and the 1st Glasgow Quantum Summit. Designed primarily for undergraduate students, while remaining accessible to learners at all levels, the Winter School aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers by introducing them to the exciting fields of quantum science, nanotechnology, and other emerging technologies that are shaping our future.
Hosted by the University of Glasgow, the programme will provide an accessible introduction to the fundamental concepts, experimental techniques and real-world applications of modern quantum and nanoscale engineering. Through lectures, demonstrations, laboratory visits, interactive discussions and networking sessions, students will gain first-hand exposure to internationally leading research and learn how discoveries made in university laboratories are translated into future technologies.
A central theme of the Winter School is research-led learning, bringing together internationally recognised researchers from academia and industry to showcase how fundamental science drives innovation in computing, communications, healthcare, energy, manufacturing and beyond.
Topics will include
- Quantum mechanics for engineers and scientists
- Quantum computing and superconducting circuits
- Quantum communications and the future Quantum Internet
- Quantum sensing and precision measurement
- Nanotechnology and nanoscale engineering
- Metamaterials and engineered electromagnetic materials
- Nanophotonics and integrated photonic systems
- Graphene and other two-dimensional (2D) materials
- Two-dimensional electron gases (2DEGs) and semiconductor nanostructures
- Topological materials and topological insulators
- Semiconductor quantum devices
- Superconductors and cryogenic technologies
- Terahertz science and technologies
- Advanced electronic and photonic materials
- Quantum materials for next-generation devices
- Artificial intelligence for scientific discovery and engineering
- Emerging technologies and future engineering challenges
Participants will also have the opportunity to attend selected keynote lectures, industrial talks, poster sessions and exhibitions organised as part of SM²Q-2026 and the 1st Glasgow Quantum Summit, allowing them to interact directly with world-leading researchers, engineers and industrial innovators.
The Winter School is intended to broaden horizons, stimulate curiosity and help students explore future careers in research, industry and entrepreneurship. Whether participants are considering postgraduate study, pursuing a career in high-technology industries or simply wishing to learn about some of today’s most exciting scientific advances, the programme offers an inspiring introduction to the rapidly evolving fields of quantum science, nanotechnology and emerging engineering technologies.
We warmly welcome undergraduate students from universities across the UK and internationally to join us in Glasgow for this exciting educational event.