As part of UNIDIR’s Science and Technology Watchtower project, this briefing will explore emerging trends in the application of quantum technologies to research and development in chemical and biological domains. It will also highlight potential risks and opportunities for chemical and biological security and related disarmament mechanisms.
Technological advances, particularly in artificial intelligence, have accelerated chemical and biological research in recent years. Although still largely in their early stages of development, quantum technologies – notably quantum-enabled simulation and modelling – are expected to further transform these fields and play an increasingly important role in driving future scientific progress.
Owing to their underlying quantum properties, quantum-based approaches are uniquely suited to simulating and modelling highly complex chemical and biological processes. This capability could open new avenues for technological innovation in areas such as molecular design, drug discovery and life sciences. However, alongside these opportunities, the integration of quantum technologies may introduce additional layers of complexity and new challenges for chemical and biological security and risk reduction efforts, with potential non-proliferation and disarmament implications.
By examining how quantum advances could reshape scientific capabilities in ways that may affect the development and detection of chemical and biological agents, this technology briefing will seek to support informed discussions within relevant disarmament fora.
Agenda
- Prof. Keunhong Jeong, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, Sogang University; Member, Scientific Advisory Board, Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
- Dr Sonali Mohapatra, Quantum Innovation Sector Lead, UK National Quantum Computing Centre
- Dr Salil Gunashekar, Senior Research Leader and Deputy Director, Science and Emerging Technology, RAND Europe; Director, Quantum Technology Observatory for Policy and Society
Moderated by Wenting He, Associate Researcher, Security and Technology Programme, UNIDIR
When and where
Tuesday, 19 May 2026 | 13:30 – 14:30 CEST | Online.
Check your local time here.
Participants
The technology briefing is primarily intended for Member State representatives working on disarmament, arms control and emerging technologies.
It also welcomes members of the broader multi-stakeholder community, including representatives from industry, academia, civil society and intergovernmental organizations.
RSVP
Please register here by Monday, 18 May 2026. Access to the event will be shared with registered participants one day prior to the session.
Further information
For questions, please contact sectec-unidir@un.org.
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