17 October 2025

Quantum science as the basis for new technologies

In the “EXplained” series, the Technical University Munich provides insights into the university's Clusters of Excellence. This episode features MCQST with Barbara Kraus, Chair of Quantum Algorithms and Applications at TUM, and Ignacio Cirac, Professor at TUM and Director at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics, two of the cluster's spokespersons.

Quantum technologies are set to be one of the key innovations of the future. They offer significant advances in computing power, communication, and sensor technology that surpass the capabilities of classical systems. The MCQST Cluster of Excellence is researching the fundamentals of these technologies while advancing their practical application.

This research focuses on fundamental questions of quantum physics: How can complex quantum systems be controlled? Which new materials and platforms are suitable for quantum computers and sensors? How can the fragile behavior of quantum phenomena be utilized stably? During the second funding phase, the cluster will expand its foundational research on quantum entanglement to enable novel applications in data processing, communication, metrology, sensor technology, materials science, chemistry, and medicine.