MCQST Mentoring Program

Guidance, Networks, and Belonging for All

The MCQST Mentoring Program supports underrepresented groups in quantum science, fostering a more inclusive research community. It is open to Master’s students, PhD candidates, and Postdocs within MCQST. The program pairs early-career scientists with mentors, while also offering many opportunities for networking and professional development among the mentee group.

Our goal is to provide mentees with guidance, networking opportunities, and a strong sense of belonging, helping them grow both professionally and personally.

The program focuses on:

  • Supporting underrepresented groups in overcoming challenges and building confidence
  • Providing access to networks and career development opportunities
  • Fostering community, allyship, and inclusion

Who Can Apply

The MCQST Mentoring Program is open to students in the Master's in QST program and Master's students in their research phase, as well as PhDs, and Postdocs working in the research group of one of our members.

Please contact support[at]mcqst.de for questions.

Master's & PhD Mentees

  • May choose a local mentor (Munich area) from academia or industry.
  • Mentor and mentee commit to four meetings throughout the year.
  • IMPRS-QST members may apply for their co-supervisor as a mentor.
  • TUM Physics candidates can also apply with their graduate program mentor.

Postdoc Mentees

  • May choose a local or international mentor.
  • MCQST reimburses travel costs for one in-person visit to mentors outside Munich.
  • Mentor and mentee agree on at least one in-person meeting per year, plus 1–2 online meetings.

Finding the Right Mentor

MCQST mentors share their academic, industry, or professional expertise to help mentees navigate career paths and personal development.

Mentors meet their mentees about 4 times throughout the year. They offer guidance and insights on career planning, diversity challenges, and leadership skills.

Applicants are encouraged to suggest possible mentors, who may be: MCQST Principal Investigators, MCQST Alumni, industry partners.

MCQST is part of the Munich Quantum Alumni network. Our former members hold positions at world-leading institutions such as Harvard, MIT, Caltech, JILA, ETH, ICFO, and major German universities. Beyond academia, they also work in the quantum industry and other sectors, including companies like Google, Amazon, Nvidia, IQM, Siemens, BMW, and McKinsey.

The MCQST EDI Office can provide support in identifying a mentor from this circle.

Not sure who to suggest?

In the motivational letter with your application, describe the qualities you would like in a mentor, such as industry expertise, academic leadership, or field-specific knowledge.

The MCQST Office and Executive Committee will support by:

  • Sharing program and network information
  • Helping match mentees with a suitable mentor
  • Facilitating the first connection

Program Elements

The Mentoring Program lasts for one calendar year. Events will be either in-person or online. It consists of:

1:1 Mentoring

  • Regular meetings to discuss career planning, leadership, and diversity topics
  • Guidance and support for navigating academia and industry career paths

Networking

Workshops & Webinars

  • In-person Kick-off Workshop "Reflect, Inspire, Empower", with Ulrike Schneeberg. Date: January 22, 2026, 9:00-17:00.
  • Joint online workshop with WIQD mentees on "Visibility and Networking for Scientists", with Ulrike Schneeberg. Date: January 29, 2026, 9:00-13:00.

Coaching

Ready to Join?

Applications are now open for MCQST Master’s, PhDs, and Postdocs.

Take the next step in your career and become part of an inclusive, supportive mentoring community!

Application Procedure

Applicants should submit:

  • A CV and list of publications
  • A motivational letter (why do you want to join, what do you expect, and what do you bring)
  • Confirmation of availability for key program events (especially kick-off workshop)
  • Optional question: Would you like to share anything about your personal background or experiences that you feel is relevant to your participation in a diversity-focused mentoring program?

Applicants are also encouraged to suggest possible mentors, who may come from:

  • MCQST Principal Investigators
  • MCQST Alumni
  • Industry partners (via MCQST/MQV cooperation)
  • (Postdocs only) Scientists from outside MCQST in their field

Please send your full application as one PDF to support[at]mcqst.de.

Application Deadline: November 15, 2025.

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