1. Purpose of the Foundation
The QIST Foundation ("the Foundation") is established as a nonprofit research institution dedicated to advancing secure automated computation, quantum information science, distributed trust architecture, post-quantum security, and interoperable intelligent technologies.
The Foundation exists to:
- Support open scientific research
- Develop standards and frameworks for secure and autonomous computation
- Facilitate collaboration across academia, industry, and public institutions
- Promote transparent, ethical, and responsible use of advanced computational technologies
2. Mandate
The Foundation’s mandate includes:
- Conducting and supporting research in quantum information science, post-quantum cryptography, intelligent systems, secure autonomy, and related disciplines
- Developing open frameworks, protocols, and reference architectures that enable trustworthy digital infrastructure
- Providing governance, oversight, and ethical guidance for emerging computational technologies
- Promoting global interoperability across computational, security, and intelligent systems
- Facilitating scientific exchange through publications, conferences, workshops, and community engagement
3. Guiding Principles
The Foundation is governed by five institutional principles:
Scientific Integrity
Research is conducted with rigor, transparency, reproducibility, and peer accountability.
Security by Design
Technologies and frameworks must prioritize cryptographic integrity, resilience, and verifiable safety.
Ethical Responsibility
Research and innovation must align with societal benefit, respect for human values, and global ethical standards.
Interoperability & Openness
The Foundation promotes collaboration, open research, and standards that enable global accessibility.
Long-Term Stewardship
The Foundation prioritizes sustainability, technological resilience, and enduring public benefit.
4. Organizational Structure
The Foundation consists of:
- Governing Board — responsible for strategic direction, oversight, and institutional priorities
- Research Oversight Board (ROB) — ensures scientific integrity, ethical compliance, and research governance
- Scientific Divisions — conduct and publish research
- Administrative Units — manage operations, compliance, communications, and partnership management
5. Scope of Activities
The Foundation may:
- Conduct independent or collaborative research
- Publish scientific work, standards, and technical reports
- Establish working groups, research programs, and fellowships
- Enter into partnerships with institutions and public organizations
- Host events, conferences, and educational programs
6. Transparency & Reporting
The Foundation commits to:
- Publishing periodic transparency reports on research, governance, and funding (future)
- Maintaining public documentation of charters, policies, and institutional decisions
- Enabling independent review where appropriate
7. Amendments
The Charter may be revised by the Governing Board with consultation from the Research Oversight Board and adherence to established governance processes.