Spring School 2026

Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Isle of Skye

24th to 29th May 2026

Join us between 24th and 29th May 2026 for an immersive week of advanced quantum informatics training in one of Scotland’s most inspiring and scenic locations. Hosted at the Gaelic college and residential campus of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig on the Isle of Skye, our 2026 Spring School will provide a unique chance to explore the challenges and opportunities in quantum informatics in a focused, immersive setting.

What to Expect

This Spring School is designed for postgraduate students (master’s and PhD) and early-career researchers, working across quantum informatics, computer science, mathematics, physics, and engineering who wish to broaden and deepen their understanding of quantum informatics. Over the intensive five-day programme you will:

  • Engage with advanced training in the structure, behaviour, and interaction of quantum hardware, software, and applications, aligned with the QI CDT’s mission of making quantum technology integrable, interoperable, and impactful.
  • Participate in lectures, hands-on tutorials and interactive sessions led by academic experts.
  • Network with peers, build collaborations and explore interdisciplinary perspectives across quantum informatics, computer science, mathematics, physics, and engineering. 
  • Benefit from the unique setting of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, nestled in the landscape of Skye and offering a tranquil, focused environment away from the bustle of everyday research life.

Programme

The detailed training programme for the week is currently being finalised, however the below topics and speakers have been confirmed:

Further information on the courses, including lectures, tutorials and workshops, as well as practical guidance on preparation, required background and pre-reading materials, will be provided in due course.

Dates and Timings

We will depart Edinburgh on 24th May at around midday (12:00), with a coach taking us to the venue (Sabhal Mòr Ostaig) on the Isle of Skye. The return journey to Edinburgh will take place on 29th May, arriving back in Edinburgh in the evening. We will update this page with further timetable information and pick-up and drop-off locations once confirmed.

Registration

Registration is due to open in February 2026, once we can confirm the final cost to attend. We expect this to be in the region of £550 per person. This will include travel from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye and back, accommodation, and meals. We are aiming to reduce this cost where possible.

Should you wish to be informed when registration opens, please sign up to our Spring School 2026 mailing list here.

Why Attend

  • Take advantage of a focused, high-calibre training environment that reflects the QI CDT’s interdisciplinary ethos.
  • Expand your quantum informatics skill-set at a time when quantum technologies are rapidly evolving and demand is growing.
  • Experience research-led learning in one of Scotland’s most beautiful and vibrant settings, fostering reflection, innovation and community.

Stay Connected

We encourage you to save the dates (24th to 29th May 2026) and check back in February 2026 for full registration details and the programme announcement. In the meantime, please follow us on LinkedIn for real-time updates, including when registration opens. Should you have any queries, please contact this year’s lead organisers, Malin Altenmüller and Louis Lemonnier, both postdoctoral researchers at the University of Edinburgh, at qicdtspringschool@gmail.com.

  • Location

    Founded in 1973 in the old farm steadings at Ostaig, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig provides a beautiful setting for the QI CDT Spring School. It offers an escape to become fully immersed in this training opportunity, while fostering an environment that gives students the best possible learning experience.

  • Facilities

    The facilities at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig offer a well-equipped and comfortable environment that supports focused learning and collaboration. Designed to encourage discussion and participation, they provide a practical setting for students to engage. 

  • Exploration

    Set against the landscapes of the Isle of Skye, participants can enjoy its beautiful scenery. A variety of outdoor and cultural activities, from hill walks to local music and crafts, provides opportunities to explore and unwind beyond the Spring School sessions.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Isle of Skye for the QI CDT Spring School 2026. Further details will be shared soon.