Indo-Swiss Quantum Dialogues
A Indo-Swiss initiative offering a unique format for researchers to connect across borders and disciplines. Developped and executed together with our partner Swissnex in India.
Are you a Switzerland- or India-based quantum researcher, a researcher from another field with a strong interest in quantum, or a science-based innovator interested in contributing to a three day closed-door event bringing together 40 participants from across quantum research, innovation and policy? Then Quantum Dialogues may be for you.
How the Quantum Dialogues work
The Indo-Swiss Quantum Dialogues creates space for genuine, in-depth dialogue across quantum research, innovation, policy and potential areas of application. Rather than centring on presentations of finished work, the format prioritises open exchange, shared questions and conversations across disciplines and professional fields.
At the heart of the initiative are two closed-door engagements, bringing together approximately 20 participants from Switzerland and 20 from India. The first will take place in Bengaluru from 29 November to 1 December 2027, followed by a second engagement in Switzerland in 2028. Researchers, science-based innovators, policy experts and potential end users will explore pressing questions, openly discuss challenges and possible solutions, and gain a deeper understanding of the two quantum ecosystems.
The Quantum Dialogues are also about listening, exchanging experiences and building relationships grounded in trust. Our ambition is that these conversations do not end when the Dialogues do, but develop into lasting ties and, over time, new Indo-Swiss collaborations and joint projects.
Timeline
The thematic focus and detailed schedule will be developed in close collaboration with experts from the quantum ecosystems of both countries and shared here in due course.
The Quantum Dialogues unfold in three connected phases:
- Phase 1: Competitive selection of participants from Switzerland and India
- Phase 2: Quantum Dialogues in Bengaluru from 29 to 30 November 2027
- Phase 3: Selection and event in Switzerland in 2028
Applications for the 2027 Dialogue are expected to open in November 2026. Complete the expression of interest form to hear from us as soon as further details are available.
Eligibility
You can apply if you are based in Switzerland or India and belong to one of the following groups:
- A researcher working in quantum science or technology
- A researcher or student from another discipline whose studies, research or current work have a demonstrable connection to quantum
- A founder, co-founder or CEO of an early-stage, science-based start-up developing technologies or applications rooted in scientific research
Eligible researchers and students include professors, senior researchers, postdoctoral researchers, PhD candidates and Master’s students.
Applicants based in Switzerland must be affiliated with a Swiss federal or cantonal university, university of applied sciences, university of teacher education, or public research institute. View the list of eligible Swiss institutions.
Applicants based in India must be affiliated with a recognised higher education institution or public research institute.
Stay up to date
Meet the team
Amanda Strub, Head Swiss Leading House South Asia
My path has taken me through very different worlds, from hotel school, international management, and International Relations and War to working on the launch of Switzerland’s first independent online magazine and later running it.
What has remained constant throughout is my curiosity about what can happen when different people, ideas and perspectives come together. I am passionate about creating encounters that might not otherwise take place, pioneering initiatives and looking beyond the obvious. This is also at the heart of the Quantum Dialogues and is why I am excited to bring the initiative to life.
Dr Lena Robra, Head of Academic Engagement, Swissnex in India
As a biochemist by training and researcher at heart, I continue to be driven by curiosity and continued learning opportunities and creativity. Connecting with people and connecting people across countries, disciplines and sectors is at the centre of my work at Swissnex.
The Quantum Dialogues are yet another approach to bring together very exciting research and knowledge across India and Switzerland, building on a historic strong connection in mathematics and theoretical physics between the two countries.
Smriti Chawla, Academic Engagement Manager, Swissnex in India
With a background in impact consulting and humanities, I am driven by a deep belief in inclusive, people-centred change. At Swissnex in India, I work on building engaging communities through interdisciplinary and cross-geographic projects, and add my perspectives on social and public policy.
Through the Quantum Dialogues, we bring together people and knowledge from across India and Switzerland, with a continued focus on connection, community building and curiosity-filled new initiatives.
Co-organisers
The Quantum Dialogues are jointly developed, planned and delivered by the Swiss Leading House South Asia and Swissnex in India.