On the Social Shaping of Quantum Technologies: An Analysis of Emerging Expectations Through Grant Proposals from 2002–2020

Abstract The term ‘quantum technology’ was first popularised by an Australian physicist in the mid-1990s. These technologies make use of properties quantum physics and are being developed invested across world, yet this emerging technology is understudied science studies. This article investigates emergence notion technologies’ examines expectations shaping field through analysis research grants funded a national funder, Research Council between 2002 2020. I examine how computing’ have come to dominate claims surrounding science. do more than inform scientific goals field. They also provide overarching, uniting rhetoric for individual projects people shape uses imagined technologies. shows draw on ‘breakthrough’ metaphors engage researchers marshal investment concludes highlighting need increased clarity regarding