Cyber London has launched a new forum for organisations to prepare for the next big shift in cyber security – the rise of quantum technologies.
The aim of the Quantum Security Think Tank is to shape quantum innovation that is safe, responsible and genuinely useful for people, businesses and the economy. It will grow into a ‘knowledge hub’ for insight on quantum security.
Quantum computers have the power to solve complex problems exponentially faster than classical computers. This could unlock huge new possibilities, but also threaten many of today’s security tools – especially encryption. Without planning, this could leave data, services and critical systems at risk.
The Think Tank brings together academics, businesses, government and non‑profits “to shape a responsible future for quantum technologies”. Its mission is to be “the global catalyst for quantum innovation” so that progress is secure, ethical and benefits society rather than creating new problems.
The purpose of the Think Tank
The Quantum Think Tank focuses on turning complex quantum issues into practical guidance that organisations can use. It works on frameworks to secure future quantum systems and reduce the risk of misuse. It also develops good practice for managing risk, meeting regulations and staying aligned with new laws around quantum technologies.
Professor Douglas Paul OBE, Advisory Board Member of the Cyber London Quantum Security Think Tank, said: “While quantum computers capable of breaking RSA encryption within hours are still more than a decade away, some nation states are already harvesting encrypted data today to decrypt in the future.
“If your data will retain value for decades, organisations must consider whether post-quantum cryptography, quantum key distribution, or quantum communications are the right path forward. These are the questions we aim to help organisations understand so they can invest in the right approaches and solutions.”
Quantum-safe security framework
To give organisations a clear path forward, Cyber London has created a step‑by‑step framework to help them move towards quantum‑safe security. Named the Quantum Safe Readiness Logic Train, it brings together 20 essential elements across five clear phases. In doing so, it provides a practical roadmap for leaders, technical teams and policymakers who need to prepare their environments for a post quantum world.
The Logic Train starts by explaining why the quantum threat matters and what new risks are emerging. It then builds understanding of post‑quantum cryptography (PQC), key concepts and regulatory expectations, before moving into planning, testing and long‑term resilience.
Five clear phases
The Logic Train is designed to be easy to follow and useful for both small teams and large enterprises. It is built around five phases:
- Awareness – recognising the urgency of the quantum threat.
- Understanding – learning the basics of PQC and how it will affect existing systems.
- Preparation – planning the transition, reviewing architecture, governance and skills.
- Implementation – testing and rolling out quantum‑safe solutions in real projects.
- Sustainability – keeping security up to date through monitoring, collaboration and ongoing improvement.
The framework “allows organisations to see where they are on their journey and understand the steps required to progress with confidence,” while keeping pace with international standards, industry needs and government policy.
Benefits for organisations
Together, the Quantum Think Tank and the Logic Train offer organisations a clear explanation of quantum risks and what they mean in practice. They also provide a structured plan to move towards quantum‑safe security, rather than reacting at the last minute. The two platforms also help to align with future regulations and standards, reducing cost and confusion later on.
There are plans to hold round advisory tables, webinars and workshops in the future to enable the think tank to showcase expertise and innovation, and contribute to debates on cyber security.
Cyber London Co-Director, Professor Muttukrishnan Rajarajan, said: “Cyber London is where innovation and collaboration come together to address societal cyber security challenges. We operate as a marketplace for cyber science, co creation, partnerships, growth, and internationalisation.
“By launching the Quantum Security Think Tank, Cyber London is giving leaders, technologists and policymakers a practical way to prepare for quantum – turning a complex future risk into a manageable, step‑by‑step journey.”
