Master's Award

Recognizing Excellent Early-Career Research

The MCQST Master's Award annually honors two outstanding Master's theses (theory and experiment) from the MCQST community. The prize highlights and recognizes outstanding master research projects, and it aims to encourage awardees to continue pursuing a further career in science.

MCQST considers outstanding theses graded 1.0 that demonstrate original thought, a unique approach to the chosen topic or field of study, significant personal contribution, and creativity. These theses are from students working in research groups associated with MCQST.

We thank last year's sponsor, Zurich Instruments, for offering a prize money of €1000 for the 2024 awardees!

Eligibility

MCQST acknowledges exceptional theses in Quantum Science and Technology with

a 1.0 grade
a submission date between Jan 1 and Dec 31, 2025
a letter of recommendation by an MCQST PI supporting the application

Award ceremony

Awards will be announced on April 21 in conjunction with the MCQST Colloquium at MPQ.

The winners are invited to present a brief overview of their work to the MCQST community.

How to Apply?

Please complete the application form until March 31 (23:59 CEST).

Apply now

Required documents (all PDF):

Abstract of thesis
Transcript of records
CV
Thesis full text (or link containing URL)

In addition, we require a letter of reference by an MCQST PI. The letter must be sent directly to support[at]mcqst.de by the supporting PI before the deadline expires.