Quantum Partnership Workshop at SURF

Jul 22, 2026, 12:00 PM → Jul 24, 2026, 1:45 PM US/Mountain

Classroom (SLHVC)

The Quantum Partnership Workshop is a collaborative gathering at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in Lead, South Dakota. Hosted by the Great Plains Network (GPN) and The Institute for Underground Science at SURF, in partnership with the South Dakota Quantum Center initiative, this workshop brings together researchers and partners advancing quantum science and technology.

 

This year’s program will focus on Regional Quantum Planning, featuring sessions and discussions on quantum science and research, networking and computing, education and workforce development, and a GPN-Wide Quantum Strategy.

 

Date: Wednesday, July 22 – Friday, July 24, 2026

Location: Sanford Underground Research Facility, Lead, South Dakota
(Sanford Lab Homestake Visitors Center)

Registration Fee:  $115 

Program Framework

• Quantum research, science, networking and computing sessions
• Education and workforce development strategies 
• Collaborative breakout groups and planning sessions 
• Site visit to South Dakota Mines quantum center labs
• Forward-looking discussion: What’s next in quantum?
• Defining next steps for regional quantum collaboration and strategy
• Featured keynote speaker, Emily Easton, Director of Education & Workforce Development for Chicago Quantum Exchange

 

The workshop begins Wednesday, July 22 at 1:00 p.m. MT with invited talks and discussions at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitors Center. The first evening will include a reception to connect with fellow attendees and explore the region’s rich history, from the legacy of the Homestake Mine to Nobel Prize-winning discoveries and ongoing neutrino research at the Sanford Underground Research Facility.

 

The following days will feature keynote talks, breakout and working sessions, and a regional site visit focused on quantum research and infrastructure.

 

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in collaborative dialogue shaping the future of quantum science.

 

 

Wed, July 22

12:45 PM Schedule Subject to Change

1 Welcome and Introductions

1:00 pm - Welcome and Announcements (10 minutes) - Mickey and Stacie
1:10 pm - Introductions and University/Organization Updates (20 minutes)
1:30 pm - SURF Overview/Update (30 minutes) - Jaret

During introductions, each university group to provide a brief update about their related projects and initiatives.

Speakers: Jaret Heise (SDSTA/SURF), Mickey Slimp, Stacie Granum (SDSTA/The Institute)

2 Quantum Science and Research

3 Partner Grant Updates (Missouri, South Dakota, Arkansas and others)

3:00 PM Break

4 Keynote: Emily Easton, Chicago Quantum Exchange, Dir of Education & Workforce

ward.

4:15 PM Group Photo

5 Reception

Thu, July 23

6 Reflect on Day 1

7 Quantum Networking and Computing

Group discussion

8 Quantum Education and Workforce Development

11:45 AM Lunch

Classroom and Outdoor Patio or Terrace (weather permitting)

9 Breakout Group 1: Quantum Networking and Computing

Plus report out for discussion following breakouts

10 Breakout Group 2: Quantum Education and Workforce Development

11 Breakout Group 3: Quantum Research

2:30 PM Break

12 Breakout Groups Report Out

13 Building a GPN-Wide Quantum Strategy

14 Reflect on Day 2

5:00 PM Adjourn

Fri, July 24

15 Leave for Rapid City, SD Mines

16 Site Visit at SD Mines (tour labs and related talk)

SD Mines campus maps and points of interest

11:00 AM Break

17 TBC

18 Recap and What's Next

Reflect on workshop, discuss what's next, including the 2027 summer workshop and bi-monthly virtual discussion groups.

Speakers: Jaret Heise (SDSTA/SURF), Mickey Slimp, Stacie Granum (SDSTA/The Institute)

1:00 PM Workshop Ends