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.

 

Designed to build new connections and strengthen existing collaborations, the 2026 workshop will highlight quantum technologies and applications while continuing discussions on quantum networking from recent meetings. Join colleagues from across the Midwest and beyond to build on prior momentum and help shape future collaborations.

 

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

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

 

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 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 SURF.

 

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, Introductions w/ Updates, and SURF Overview

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 Invited Talks (networking, computing, mathematics, SURF-based research)

3:00 PM Break and Group Photo

3 Keynote

ward.

4 Reception

Thu, July 23

5 Reflect on Day 1

6 What's Next in Quantum?

Group discussion

7 Keynote

11:30 AM Lunch

Classroom and Outdoor Patio or Terrace (weather permitting)

8 Breakouts: strategy discussions (infrastructure, funding, workforce development, etc.)

Plus report out for discussion following breakouts

2:00 PM Break

9 Breakouts: Working Sessions

10 Working Session Report Outs & Discussion

11 Reflect on Day 2

Fri, July 24

12 Site Visit Overview & Travel to Site Visit Location

13 Site Visit to SD Mines (tour labs and related talk)

11:15 AM Break

14 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)

15 Lunch Reservations and Informal Discussions - OPTIONAL

Lunch will not be provided, but reservations will be made at two restaurants in the area for those who would like to meet and continue the conversations informally. Lunch will be at the expense of the individual.