Sensing the Signal

Whenever we hear about quantum computing, it's usually in relation to how it will fundamentally change the world once it hits the mainstream. But what is quantum computing? What will it enable us to do that conventional computing can't?
And what is the reality behind the hype? On this episode of Sensing the Signal, we were privileged to be invited to peek behind the scenes at the UK's National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) where we discussed these topics with our guest, Michael Cuthbert, Director of the NQCC. In this conversation we covered the physics behind quantum computing, the potential technology and geopolitical impacts we might see in the future, and the role of the NQCC in advancing the UK's quantum computing capabilities.

Disinformation presents a pervasive and growing threat that is increasingly undermining our fundamental security, affecting us in ways that might not be obvious. More than ever we need to address the vital question: how do we defend our national security (and our own minds) against disinformation?
In this episode of Sensing the Signal we talk to Rachele Gilman, an expert who has investigated cases of disinformation and is developing standards and frameworks that help us better understand and analyse the threat.

Human trafficking is a multi-billion dollar illegal industry that operates in plain sight. Yet most people very rarely notice the signs, let alone consider how this criminal activity can be stopped. Fortunately, one organisation is dedicated to uncovering and preventing human trafficking. In this episode, we talk to Neil Giles and Alice Nottage from Stop the Traffik and delve into the work of this small yet remarkable organisation, which has built an innovative and unique data analysis and intelligence-sharing capability. By understanding the lived experience of victims, Stop the Traffik creates a rich data picture that results in positive real-world impact across the globe, with many people freed from exploitation.

For this episode, we took the show on the road - to DSEI UK 2025, 'the flagship defence event for the UK' which is a global platform for the entire defence industry. This year saw an expanded Tech Zone that gave us several indicators of how defence tech is developing, particularly driven by current wars in Ukraine and elsewhere. We took the opportunity of having thousands of interesting people in the same place to talk to a selection of expert guests: Clay Hicks from Zignal Labs, Enrique Oti from Second Front Systems, Tony Reeves from Maiar, and Neil Sinclair, spokesperson for DSEI.

Ahead of the DSEI 2025 show, we talk to retired Rear Admiral Jon Pentreath, currently a Senior Military Advisor to DSEI, about the key trends in defence technology. In particular, we discuss innovative adoption of hardware and software solutions from non-traditional suppliers and what that means for military end-users. The trends are signified at DSEI by the Tech Zone being the fastest growing sector, with over 100 companies signed up. The range of companies involved also demonstrates how innovation in defence technology is happening outside the traditional defence sector, especially with increased involvement from SMEs.