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

Below is the schedule* for the week (see dropdown), as per the listed topics and speakers, so you know what is planned and who will lead each session.

*This schedule is tentative and subject to change.

Time Sunday 24th May Monday 25th May Tuesday 26th May Wednesday 27th May Thursday 28th May Friday 29th May
09:00 to 09:30   Algorithms Causality Quantum Error Correction Causality Quantum Error Correction
09:30 to 10:00 
10:00 to 10:30 Causality Quantum Error Correction
10:30 to 11:00 Coffee Break Coffee Break Coffee Break
11:00 to 11:30

Welcome

 Programming Languages Quantum Error Correction Coffee Break Coffee Break Causality
11:30 to 12:00 Resource Estimation/ Semantics Algorithms/ Programming Languages
12:00 to 12:30
12:30 to 13:00

Travel from Edinburgh
to Skye

 Lunch Lunch Excursion Lunch

Travel from Skye to Edinburgh
13:00 to 13:30
13:30 to 14:00
14:00 to 14:30 Semantics Resource Estimation/ Semantics Mentoring and Sponsor Events
14:30 to 15:00
15:00 to 15:30
15:30 to 16:00 Coffee Break Coffee Break
16:00 to 16:30 Resource Estimation Algorithms/ Programming Languages
16:30 to 17:00
17:00 to 17:30
17:30 to 18:00

 

    
18:00 to 18:30
18:30 to 19:00

Dates and Timings

We will depart Edinburgh on 24th May in the early afternoon, 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.

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.

Application and Registration 

Due to limited places and high demand, those wishing to attend the Spring School were asked to apply in the first instance (the deadline was 5th March). If your application is approved, you will receive a registration link to secure your place. Registration links will be shared with applicants who are offered a place between 13th March and 20th March.

The registration fee is £550 and includes return coach travel from Edinburgh to Skye, accommodation on Skye (shared twin rooms), meals and coffee breaks (including lunch on Sunday, 24th May, but excluding dinner on Friday, 29th May), as well as relevant activities.

Please note that applications are now closed

Stay Connected

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!