Max Planck Graduate Center for Quantum Materials

Quantum Materials
The term “quantum materials” is shorthand for a rapidly evolving research frontier that aims to understand, control, and ultimately design materials in which quantum physics enables novel functionalities. Recent developments include the discovery of novel phenomena resulting from the topology of the electron wave function in solids, the dynamical control of many-electron states (such as superconductivity) by coherent light fields, and the synthesis of heterostructures and devices comprising atomically sharp interfaces between different quantum materials. Based on these and other developments, there is no doubt that quantum materials will remain at the frontier of solid-state research for at least the next generation of scientists.

The Graduate Center – more than the sum of its parts
Seven Max Planck Institutes in Germany (Berlin, Dresden, Erlangen, Hamburg, Halle, and Stuttgart) participating in the MP Graduate Center for Quantum Materials. All are world-leading institutions in their respective fields, and they operate highly attractive Ph.D. programs in cooperation with universities both in Germany and abroad. Within the Graduate Center for Quantum Materials, these institutes will join forces and further enhance their strong collaboration in research and training of outstanding young scientists. We offer our students a truly unique research environment with access to a large number of world-class research facilities, as well as a newly designed curriculum covering the frontiers of research on quantum materials.

Educating for the science of tomorrow
The overarching goal of the Max Planck Graduate Center for Quantum Materials is to provide its students a comprehensive training in the field of quantum materials. As a key new feature, the Center includes a set of high-level "Frontiers of Research" courses closely aligned with research at the Max Planck Institutes. Examples of "Frontiers of Research" in quantum materials are superconductivity, synthesis of quantum materials, quantum heterostructures, spin orbitronics, neuromorphic computing, or dynamical control. These courses will typically be taught to small groups of students, so that they can be more interactive than regular coursework.

In order to offset the geographical separation of the participating institutions, students from different locations will gather for courses at a central location. Beside these block course, students can benefit from a dedicated network of “immersive” video studios at all institutes involved in the Graduate Center. The studios will use large screens and state-of-the-art sound technology to simulate personal meetings in a life-like manner.

The "Frontiers in Research" series and other courses will be complemented by a number of courses which are offered at the participating MPIs and the associated International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS). We offer an English-language curriculum comprising lecture courses, a training program in complementary skills, and summer and winter schools with leading international partner institutions. This ambitious approach will provide our students a unique opportunity to kick-start a successful scientific career.

Gender balance is an important issue for us, and we particularly welcome applications from female candidates. Furthermore, we encourages applications from individuals with disabilities.