Virtual event
An Introduction to Quantum Computing for Policymakers
Exclusively for public servants and policymakers
Monday, Apr 14, 2025
Time is displayed in your local time zone
Speakers
What to Do Next
- Catch up on the 10-minute highlights above, or dive into the full recording
- Join the Quantum Computing Community
- Check out other emerging tech events we are running, up next AI on the Frontline: From Care Workers to Classrooms
Resources
Join the Quantum Computing Community
The Quantum Computing Community is a discussion forum for public servants around the world to share insights, resources and questions on the application of quantum and its intersection with policy work.
Event Description
Over the past two years, policymakers worldwide have scrambled to keep pace with the rapid rise of AI. With 2025 declared the ‘International Year of Quantum’ by UNESCO, now is the time to get ahead of the next wave of emerging technologies.
Quantum computing – a specific innovation within the broader field of quantum technology – is set to transform everything from national security to public service delivery, but the field remains complex and often misunderstood. This event, hosted on World Quantum Day, will offer a clear, accessible introduction to what quantum computing means for you as someone working in policy, and why it matters.
Join leading experts as they break down quantum computing’s potential impact, highlight real-world use cases and discuss the crucial role policymakers play in shaping its future. Whether you’re new to the topic or looking to deepen your understanding, this session will provide the insights and new knowledge you need to lead confidently into the quantum era.
Interested in how Apolitical can support you and your organisation? Learn about collaborating with us.
Speakers
Tom Scott
Quantum Policy Lead at the Office for Quantum, DSIT
UK
Kate Weber
Head of Governance and External Affairs, Google Quantum AI
US
Freeke Heijman
Independent Consultant on Quantum and Deeptech innovation
Netherlands
Leonardo Quattruci
Adjunct Professor, Sciences Po; Senior Fellow, The International Center for Future Generations
Belgium
Tom Scott, responsible for setting the overarching policy for the National Quantum Strategy Missions portfolio within the Department for Science Innovation and Technology. This includes programmes of work on quantum computing, networking and several sensing and timing applications. He is also responsible for DSIT’s work on public and private sector adoption of quantum technologies.
Kate Weber, leads external affairs and governance, including internal governance and government relations and policy, for Google’s quantum computing team, Google Quantum AI. Previously, she led global public policy for emerging technologies at Google. Before Google, she was a AAAS Fellow and Division Chief in the US Department of State’s Bureau for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs. She holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of Cambridge where she was a Marshall Scholar, and a B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Richmond.
Freeke Heijman, senior innovation ecosystem builder with an impressive track record of starting and scaling the Dutch Quantum Ecosystem approach of Quantum Delta NL. She has recently started a global consultancy practice targeting startups and corporates, governmental programs and investors to advise on their innovation strategies in the field of advanced computing and deeptech. TNO, NATO and several scale-up companies are among her current clients. She has served as co-chair of the WEF Global Future Economy for the last 2 terms.
