Sheffield Discussion Forum

Public Debate about Future of Technology:

“Should we invest in Quantum Technology, Silicon Photonics or both?”

Date: Monday, 26 January 2025

Time: 14:00 – 17:20

Location: The Wave, Lecture Theatre 3

Host: University of Sheffield

Organization: Sheffield Quantum Centre

Duration: 3.5 hours (including 30-minute break)

This public debate, preceding the SQC Winter School (January 27–28, 2026), invites leading voices in quantum and optical sciences to explore the question of how these technologies will evolve in the 21st century. The discussion contrasts classical technologies based on silicon photonics (mature, precision optical systems) with quantum optical systems that are based on entanglement, superposition and coherence (sometimes referred to as 'Quantum 2.0'). The goal of this debate is to engage academics, students, and the wider public in an open, reflective, and forward-looking conversation.

Main Participants

• Sir Peter Knight FRS – representing Quantum Technologies

• Professor Graham Reed FRS, FREng – representing Silicon Photonics

• Chair & Moderator: Professor Oleksandr Kyriienko, Director @ SQC

• Panelists: Lecturers for the SQC Winter School and invited guests

Event Schedule

14:00 – 14:10: Welcome and Introduction
Chair introduces the format and participants, setting a collaborative and exploratory tone.

14:10 – 15:00: Opening Statements (25 min each)
Sir Peter Knight (Quantum Tech) and Prof. Graham (Silicon Photonics) outline their visions. Immediate audience questions follow each talk.

15:00 – 15:15: Moderated Exchange
Short crossfire session between the two debaters, guided by the moderator’s questions and timed for 1.5-min answers.

15:15 – 15:45: Break
Coffee and informal discussions among attendees and panelists.

15:45 – 16:20: Team Round: Panel Joins the Debate
Panel members align with either Quantum or Silicon Photonics and share short perspectives. Teams address thematic questions collaboratively.

16:20 – 17:00: Floor Contributions and Audience Questions
Audience members make short interventions or ask questions. Debaters respond as 'lead advocates,' supported by panelists.

17:00 – 17:15: Consensus and Reflection
Moderator and speakers identify key takeaways and shared perspectives. Each debater gives final remarks.

17:15 – 17:20: Closing Remarks
Chair thanks participants and invites attendees to continue the conversation informally.