QuantERA has released a revised edition of its Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) Guidelines, this time with a focus on gender equality. The network continues reinforcing long-term commitment to align technological developments with societal values and ethical foresight as core elements of the European quantum research ecosystem. 

The first version of the Guidelines, published in 2018, introduced the RRI framework to the quantum community. The newly revised document reflects the strategic evolution of QuantERA — from raising awareness to building a sustainable, responsible, and gender-balanced framework for science and technology. It captures lessons learned from nearly a decade of collaboration within the QuantERA programme. 

“Rather than prescribing fixed templates, the Guidelines offer tested practices, examples, and strategic reflections that can be adapted to different institutional contexts. By highlighting both progress and remaining gaps, the document contributes to a shared understanding of what it means to do quantum research responsibly — and why it matters.”

The updated Guidelines offer practical approaches for integrating RRI principles into joint call design, evaluation processes, funding practices, and project implementation and monitoring. 

A dedicated chapter focuses on gender equality as a cornerstone of sustainability and excellence in STEM. It identifies structural barriers that limit women participation and outlines practical measures to foster change. The document also highlights the Women Leaders in Quantum interview series, showcasing diverse career paths and inspiring role models across the European quantum ecosystem. 

“The quantum field is still young — and this is precisely what makes it a powerful opportunity to build inclusive cultures from the outset, not retroactively. As the field stands at the threshold of rapid transformation and growing strategic relevance, ensuring RRI principles is not only a question of fairness, but a foundation for resilience. A more sustainable, responsible and gender-balanced quantum ecosystem will be more creative, more just, and ultimately more effective in serving Europe’s long-term societal and technological goals.“

 

Revised “QuantERA RRI guidelines for research community” with a focus on gender equality in research community, were prepared under Task 5.4 “Towards more gender-balanced quantum technologies”. The Guidelines were authored by Lydia González Orta (AEI) and Watse Castelein (AEI) together with Dr Kamila Twardowska (NCN).