22 May 2025
MCQST is Continued!
The Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology (MCQST) has been awarded a second funding phase by the German Research Foundation (DFG) under Germany’s highly competitive Excellence Strategy. Following a rigorous evaluation process, the cluster will receive continued support through 2032 to further strengthening its role as a world-leading hub for quantum research.
Continued Excellence through Collaboration
MCQST unites five leading institutions: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), the Technical University of Munich (TUM), the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ), the Walther-Meißner-Institute of the Bavarian Academy of Sciences and Humanities, and the Deutsches Museum. Since its launch in 2019, the cluster has built a vibrant ecosystem of over 60 research groups working across all areas of quantum science.
“The cluster really does cover all areas of quantum science, which is unique in the world. This is the foundation for true progress, as we are building on a strong ecosystem of all partners involved,” says Immanuel Bloch, spokesperson of MCQST, alongside Barbara Kraus (TUM) and Ignacio Cirac (MPQ).
In its first funding phase, MCQST researchers produced over 1,500 publications in top-tier journals, secured 30 ERC Grants, earned numerous scientific awards, and helped position Munich as a global magnet for quantum talent.
In its second phase, MCQST will continue advancing the understanding, control, and application of entanglement — the cornerstone of quantum technologies. Research will be organized into six thematic areas, ranging from foundational theory to real-world applications: Quantum Information, Quantum Simulation, Quantum Networks, Quantum Matter, Quantum Sensing, and Emerging Directions.
This interdisciplinary approach allows the cluster to drive innovation in both fundamental research and emerging quantum technologies.
Empowering the Next Generation
Supporting early-career researchers remains a central mission of the cluster. From undergraduate education to postdoctoral fellowships and tenure-track programs, MCQST provides structured support at every career stage. The joint LMU & TUM Master Program in Quantum Science and Technology as well as the START Fellowship for Postdocs have become key pillars of talent development. Notably, the majority of funding will continue to be directed toward early-career researchers.
MCQST is also committed to changing the culture of quantum research by promoting equity and diversity. Initiatives such as mentoring schemes and leadership programs for underrepresented groups will be further expanded.
Science Meets Society
MCQST actively engages with the public to foster curiosity and awareness of quantum science. The cluster regularly organizes events, develops educational content and hands-on formats aimed at making quantum science accessible and inspiring, particularly for high school students and teachers. Here, two initiatives stand out, first, the PhotonLab, a laboratory offering hands-on experiments and didactic materials engaging young students, second, the “Light and Matter” exhibition at the Deutsches Museum that was launched in 2024.
A Global Quantum Network
MCQST is expanding its international collaborations to strengthen Munich’s position in the global quantum research landscape. Initiatives include the CalBay partnership (California–Bavaria) with regular exchanges between researchers of both locations, as well as joint workshops with leading research centers such as ICFO – Institute of Photonic Sciences (Barcelona), Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (Canada), and the Centre for Quantum Technologies (Singapore).
All in all, MCQST remains committed to excellence in research, education, and to building a vibrant quantum community. By strengthening its international networks, supporting early-career researchers, and expanding the frontiers of quantum science, the cluster will continue to lay the foundations for tomorrow’s quantum technologies.