QNetworks Workshop 2026
Connecting global leaders to shape the future of a quantum networked world
About
QNetworks is a two-day international workshop organised by the Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) Hub, the UK’s flagship national programme for quantum networks research. QNetworks invites thought leaders from similar flagship R&D initiatives across the world, and brings together key governmental and industry voices to discuss the challenges, solutions, and partnerships required to deliver the next generation of quantum networks.
This year’s event will take place in person at Bristol on 12-13 May, 2026, and will be free to attend thanks to support from the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC).
Sessions will cover recent developments on quantum memories; integrated photonics for quantum networking, enabling technologies and field trials; the role of entanglement; post-quantum cryptography; quantum communications via satellite; networked quantum systems for distributed sensing and computing; and more.
There will be an opportunity for Early Career Researchers/PhD students to present research posters at the event. If this option is of interest, there is the option to submit a 150-word abstract during the registration process.
Speaker announcements will follow soon!
Venue
Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Rd, Bristol BS1 5TT
QNetworks 2026 will be hosted at the Bristol Megascreen, located within the Bristol Aquarium. This former IMAX cinema is ideally located in central Bristol and will provide an outstanding conference venue with its tiered 300 seater auditorium, huge 19x15m screen and professional Dolby audio.
Outline Agenda
More information coming soon!
Speakers
Information on confirmed speakers will follow soon.
Accommodation
Bristol is a vibrant city offering diverse options for accommodation. Below is a selection of hotels located near the venue which accommodate a range of budgets:
Programme Committee
Sima Bahrani
University of Bristol
Gerald Buller
Heriot-Watt University
Alex Clark
University of Bristol
Marcus Clark
University of Bristol
Roger Colbeck
King College London
Alessandro Fedrizzi
Heriot-Watt University
Daniel Oi
University of Strathclyde
Ciara Rafferty
Queens University Belfast
Jason Smith
University of Oxford
Rui Wang
University of Bristol
Adrian Wonfor
University of Cambridge
Mark Yang
University of Bristol
EDI Statement
Principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) are firmly embedded across all operational and governance aspects of the IQN Hub programme of work, and extend to all engagement activities, including events such as the QNetworks 2026 workshop. We are committed to ensuring that our conference is inclusive and accessible to all. Registration is free and travel bursaries are available for those without access to other sources of funding (UK travel only). Assistive technologies will be in place to ensure that all participants can take part fully. A quiet space will be available for attendees who need a calm area to take a break and refocus.
In selecting speakers, we seek to represent a diverse range of backgrounds, career stages, disciplines, and perspectives.