The Quantum Nexus: A Framework for Canadian Strategic Advantage in a Contested Domain

The Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) invites applications for a competitive emerging scholars program connected to a Department of National Defence Mobilizing Insights in Defence and Security (DND MINDS)-supported research project on the nexus of quantum technologies, intellectual property (IP) and national security. The program aims to foster multidisciplinary dialogue and support the next generation of scholars and policy thinkers working at the intersection of emerging technologies, governance and security.

The research project explores governance challenges raised by quantum technologies and their convergence with artificial intelligence (AI), including post-quantum cryptography migration, dual-use considerations and supply-chain resilience. It addresses the tension between open scientific collaboration and the protection of strategically sensitive technologies and intellectual assets.

Themes

The program is organized around six themes (final subtopics will be confirmed by the project leads):

• Quantum, IP, dual-use and export controls
• Post-quantum cryptography migration
• Critical materials and quantum supply chains
• Quantum-AI convergence
• Quantum standards, procurement and allied interoperability
• Applying the least trade-restrictive, security-sufficient, innovation-preserving (LSI) test to a case study (please see suggested readings)

Program Overview

Selected participants will join a small cohort of four to six emerging scholars from across Canada for a virtual mentorship and publication program running from September to December 2026. Participants will:

• Receive a one-on-one mentorship session with CIGI Senior Fellow and Principal Investigator Mauritz Kop.
• Participate in an online international expert workshop with researchers and practitioners (Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. EDT [UTC–4:00]).
• Attend an online group masterclass on emerging technology governance and publication development, chaired by Mauritz Kop (Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. EST [UTC–5:00]).
• Develop a 1,200–1,500-word analytical note on an assigned subtopic.
• Contribute an analytical note to the project’s final CIGI report (Emerging Scholars annex).

All program activities are conducted online.

Eligibility

Applications are open to individuals based in Canada, including undergraduate and master’s students, Ph.D. candidates and post-doctoral researchers. Prior expertise in quantum technologies and their societal impact is not required; applicants from all disciplinary and educational backgrounds are encouraged to apply.