Thursday focuses on in-depth exploration of the technologies shaping the future of Deep Tech.
The day brings together two specialist Tech Deep Dive tracks alongside The Big Tech Debate, before concluding with the Cambridge Tech Week Gala Reception, bringing together delegates, speakers and partners for an evening of networking and celebration.
Tech Deep Dives:
Quantum & AI
Exploring the rapid development of quantum technologies and advanced AI systems, and how these fields are reshaping computation, research and industry.
Med Tech & Health Tech
Examining the next wave of medical and health technologies, from diagnostics and digital health to advanced therapies and healthcare innovation.
The Big Tech Debate
A high-profile debate bringing together leaders from technology, research, investment and policy. This year’s debate discusses Dual Use Tech: Redrawing the Line Between Civilian and Defence Innovation.
The day concludes with Cambridge Tech Week Gala Reception.
Locations: Queens College, Guildhall and Graduate Hotel, Cambridge
Date: Thursday 17 September
Time: 09:00 – 20:15*
*final timings to be confirmed
Tech Deep Dive: Med Tech & Health Tech Agenda
*draft agenda, subject to change
Tech Deep Dive: Quantum & AI Agenda
*draft agenda, subject to change
The Big Tech Debate
Dual‑use technology is rapidly reshaping the relationship between civilian and defence innovation. Civilian sectors now drive advances in AI, drones and quantum, leaving defence exposed if it stays at arm’s length. With military R&D overshadowed by big‑tech investment, closer alignment feels financially inevitable, and some argue that civilian norms could even raise ethical standards. In this view, technology is neutral – governance determines its impact.
The counter argument warns that merging these worlds carries serious democratic risks. As defence work shifts into civilian companies, oversight weakens, researchers may be drawn into weapons development without consent, and open ecosystems become channels for proliferation. The same technologies that strengthen security and resilience can also be adapted for offensive use or misused at scale, raising difficult questions about accountability and control. Power risks consolidating in a small, unaccountable tech elite. Some argue that rejecting integration simply concedes the technological edge to authoritarian states. Others insist that democracies must accept strategic limits to protect their values, and that dissolving the boundary between civilian and defence innovation goes too far. Expect a fast, provocative exchange on whether separating these domains is still possible in practice.
Speakers:
- Kateryna Bezsudna, Director, TEKEVER Ukraine
- Shane Mason, Founder & Director, Strategical