Loops '26 Summer School

The Loop Quantum Gravity Summer School 2026, held from 10 May to 22 May 2026 in Yangzhou, China, and hosted by Yangzhou University, provided participants with a comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to current research in Loop Quantum Gravity, as well as to its fundamental concepts. The school was designed for graduate students and early-career researchers working in the field of quantum gravity and covered the fundamental aspects of both canonical and covariant formulations of LQG, as well as applications to quantum black holes and quantum cosmology.The programme consisted of more than thirteen lecture series delivered by researchers in the field. These lectures introduced both the theoretical foundations and current research directions of Loop Quantum Gravity, allowing participants to gain a broad overview of the subject while also engaging with recent developments. In addition to the formal lectures, numerous opportunities were provided for discussions and scientific exchange, enabling students to clarify concepts, discuss research problems, and interact directly with experts.The school was hosted at the RAMADA Hotel, located near the Slender West Lake in Yangzhou. All participants and lecturers were accommodated at the hotel throughout the duration of the school. This arrangement created an open and highly interactive atmosphere, fostering informal scientific discussions beyond the scheduled lectures. Shared meals at the hotel further encouraged interaction among students and lecturers, facilitating the exchange of ideas and helping participants establish connections with fellow students as well as with researchers in the field.

In addition to the academic programme, the school included an excursion through the city of Yangzhou. This half-day trip consisted of visits to the Yangzhou Intangible Cultural Heritage Treasure Museum, the Digital Scenario Innovation Center and the World Historic and Cultural Canal Cities Cooperation Organization Centre, offering participants an opportunity to discover the history and the cultural heritage of the host city, as well as its lead role in developing new technologies to assist the population. At the end of the visits, it was also possible to participate in some activities meant to experience Chinese immaterial cultural heritage, such as paper-cutting, woodblock printing and preparing traditional steamed buns. 

Furthermore, a public lecture by Carlo Rovelli offered a broader audience insight into contemporary research in fundamental physics and quantum gravity. The programme also featured an introduction to the journal Universe, which provided participants with valuable information regarding scientific publishing, the role of artificial intelligence in research, and current developments within the field. Overall, the Loop Quantum Gravity Summer School 2026 offered an excellent combination of high-level scientific training, opportunities for academic networking, and cultural exchange. The event provided participants with a deeper understanding of LQG and its current research frontiers while fostering connections among students and researchers from diverse academic backgrounds. The school was very well organised, and we would like to take this opportunity to thank all organisers for making the event run so smoothly and for providing such an engaging and scientifically interesting programme.