Quantum Science and Technology

Quantum Science & Technology is a broad, interdisciplinary field of contemporary science spanning a wide range of scientific areas with a high potential for the development of future information, sensing and computing technologies. Major research thrusts are, for example, quantum computing, quantum sensing, quantum simulation, quantum materials, and quantum cryptography, to name but a few. The research field is firmly grounded on the basic understanding of the principles of quantum mechanics, but it also relies on developments in neighbouring research areas such as mathematics, information technology, electrical engineering and chemistry. It is for this reason that the two Munich universities – Technical University of Munich and Ludwig-Maximilians Universität – have joined forces to establish the “Quantum Science & Technology“ interdisciplinary Master’s study programme (QST). Students particularly benefit from the research environment provided by the Excellence cluster Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology (MCQST). The QST study programme goes significantly beyond the standard teaching programme of quantum mechanics as in modern application of quantum technologies (Quantum 2.0), the concepts of superposition and entanglement are of central importance. Owing to the complexity of the field, the QST study programme is aimed at students who will work at the forefront of quantum science and who will expand the existing research areas in natural sciences (e.g. physics and chemistry), mathematics, and engineering (e.g. computer science and electrical engineering). Students learn to directly translate current results from research and development in science (e.g. physics, chemistry), mathematics and engineering (e. g. informatics, electrical engineering) into applications, such as quantum sensors, quantum algorithms, and quantum computers, which exploit quantum phenomena – especially superposition and entanglement. The courses available within the QST Master’s programme cover the basics and the skills required to successfully carry out research or industrial projects across interdisciplinary boundaries. In addition to the necessary background knowledge and practical know-how, the social skills required in the academic or industrial environment will be promoted. This profile is intended to enable graduates to be deployed in a wide range of research as well as in industrial and service industries. Typical fields of application for the graduates of the QST Master’s programme include experimental and theoretical research activities, in the planning and documentation of research projects, and in adjacent fields of activity of the computer science and technology industry, for example, in patenting, development, project planning, or in public institutions. The first year of this interdisciplinary Master’s programme focuses mainly on fundamental introductory lectures and lab courses, while the second year focuses on the research within the framework of the Master’s thesis. During the study phase, students attend mandatory courses, and additionally, they attend some courses chosen from the catalogue of elective courses. It is important to note that the two mandatory modules (PH1009 & PH1010) must be completed in the first semester. The elective subjects cover selected topics from the research area Quantum Science & Technology and prepare students for engaging in current research, uniquely reflecting the broad research activity of the cooperating universities, TUM and LMU. A scientifically-oriented lab course and a general-education subject round off the profile of this Master’s programme. During the research phase, the students will directly encounter current research topics in Quantum Science & Technology. After an initial familiarisation through the Master’s seminar and the Master’s practical training, each student will independently work on the Master’s thesis under the guidance of a thesis adviser. During the whole research pha