MCQST Doctoral Program Guidelines
The MCQST Doctoral Program provides structured support, training, and guidance for PhD candidates within the cluster. These guidelines outline key requirements, processes, and resources available to all members.
Joining the MCQST Doctoral Program
Students can join the Doctoral Program either through the annual application process or after starting their PhD in an affiliated research group. All members have equal access to program benefits, regardless of funding source.
Registration period
- Spring: April 15 – May 15
- Fall: October 15 – November 15
Supervision & Thesis Advisory Board (TAB)
Each student is supported by a Thesis Advisory Board (TAB) consisting of a supervisor (primary guidance) and a co-supervisor (independent advice, ideally from another group)
Students actively participate in selecting their TAB.
Key points:
- Supervision agreement is mandatory upon joining [link to document]
- At least one meeting with each TAB member per year
- Additional meetings can be arranged anytime
Curriculum Requirements
The MCQST curriculum is designed to provide flexibility while encouraging strong engagement within our quantum community.
Mandatory component: Completion of 2 courses, selected from the elective modules of the Master’s in QST program (offered jointly at LMU and TUM, including lectures and seminars)
Recommended activities (not mandatory):
- MCQST Summer School and Conference
- Additional seminars, workshops, and training events
Community engagement: A high level of active participation within MCQST is expected. This includes:
- Regular attendance at colloquia, seminars, and relevant workshops
- Active contribution to the scientific community
Students are also encouraged to take part in organizing academic and community activities (e.g. summer schools, seminar series, workshops), fostering collaboration and helping shape the program.
Annual Progress Report
The progress report is an important tool to reflect on achievements, identify challenges early, and receive structured feedback from the Thesis Advisory Board. Students submit a yearly progress report by October 31.
The report consists of two parts:
- Scientific progress (shared with TAB)
- Optional confidential reflection (for coordinator)
Process
- A meeting with the supervisor is required prior to submission (this may be part of regular feedback meetings)
- A follow-up discussion with the co-supervisor is recommended
To support students, MCQST provides recommendations and guidelines on the structure and content of the progress report. These guidelines are available for download and should be used as a reference when preparing the report [link to document]
Support & Contact Points
MCQST offers a range of support structures to ensure that all students have access to guidance, representation, and confidential assistance throughout their PhD.
Students are encouraged to reach out to any of these contact points early, whether for practical questions, guidance, or support.
PhD Board
The PhD Board represents the student body within MCQST. It serves as a central point for communication between students and the program committee, advocates for student interests, and helps address general concerns or suggestions related to the program.
Doctoral Program Coordinator
The coordinator is the primary contact for organizational and administrative matters. They also provide confidential support in case of difficulties during the PhD, including challenges with supervision, progress, or working conditions, and can help mediate conflicts or identify appropriate solutions.
EDI Office
The EDI Office offers dedicated support to students from diverse backgrounds, including international and minority groups. It provides advice, resources, and a safe space to discuss concerns related to inclusion, equality, and well-being within the academic environment.
TUM & LMU Graduate Centers
The MCQST Doctoral Program runs alongside university-specific doctoral regulations.
TUM Graduate School
- The TUM-GS is the first point of contact for all topics related to the doctorate at TUM. It promotes structured training for doctoral candidates.
- Membership in TUM Graduate School is required
- Administrative processes handled by Graduate Centers
LMU Graduate Center
- The LMU Graduate Center is the central coordination, advice and service unit for doctoral studies at LMU Munich (link)
- No mandatory graduate center enrolment
- Contact faculty dean’s office for administrative guidance
Discover LMU Graduate Center
Code of Conduct
MCQST is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and professional research environment. All members are expected to adhere to the MCQST Code of Conduct.
Need Help?
For questions or support, contact the MCQST Doctoral Program Coordinator.