IMPRS Quantum Dynamics And Control PhD Programme Dresden 2027 in Germany | Fully Funded — Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems
⚠️ This scholarship's deadline has passed and it's no longer accepting applications.
Quantum science moves fast enough that waiting a full year to start a PhD can feel like a real loss, which is why Dresden’s IMPRS for Quantum Dynamics and Control runs two application cycles every year instead of one.
About the Scholarship
The International Max Planck Research School for Quantum Dynamics and Control, based at the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems in Dresden, trains doctoral students across atomic and chemical physics, condensed matter, information science, and quantum optics. The PhD is conferred by TU Dresden or a partner institution, and the roughly three-year programme combines independent thesis research with a structured English-language training curriculum.
Scholarship Benefits
Funding is comprehensive and covers the full doctoral period.
- Full coverage of living expenses for the duration of the PhD
- No tuition fees, aside from an optional TU Dresden enrollment fee of around 280 EUR per term
- Two application cycles per year, with deadlines in April and October
- Structured training in quantum science alongside independent research
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants need a Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, mathematics, or computer science, with strong academic performance in quantum-related coursework. The programme is open to candidates of any nationality, and English is the working language throughout, so no German proficiency is required for admission.
Fields of Study Covered
Research areas include atomic and chemical physics, condensed matter physics, quantum information science, and quantum optics, giving students room to align their thesis with any of the participating research groups.
Required Documents
- Online IMPRS-QDC application
- Master’s degree certificate and transcripts
- CV highlighting relevant coursework or research experience
- Statement of research interests
- Two academic letters of recommendation
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
1. Review the research groups connected to the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems and identify areas of interest.
2. Prepare transcripts, a CV, and a statement of research interests tied to quantum science.
3. Secure two letters of recommendation from academic referees.
4. Submit the application by whichever of the two annual deadlines, April 30 or October 31, fits the intended start date.
5. Attend an interview if shortlisted by the programme committee.
6. Accepted students confirm enrollment at TU Dresden or a partner institution alongside the funding offer.
Selection Process
The admissions committee evaluates academic strength in physics or a closely related field, prior exposure to quantum science topics, and the clarity of the applicant’s research interests relative to the institute’s active research groups.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Applicants with coursework or project experience specifically in quantum mechanics or condensed matter physics tend to stand out more clearly than general physics graduates. Taking advantage of the twice-yearly application cycle to apply as soon as academic records are ready, rather than waiting for a single annual deadline, can shorten the path to starting the PhD. Students comparing other structured Max Planck doctoral programmes may also want to review the International Max Planck Research School for Biological Intelligence PhD Programme for a sense of how these schools are typically run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many application cycles are there each year?
There are two cycles per year, with deadlines on April 30 and October 31, corresponding to autumn and spring start dates.
Which institution grants the PhD degree?
The degree is conferred by Technische Universität Dresden or one of the programme’s partner institutions, depending on the student’s specific supervision arrangement.
Is there a tuition fee for this programme?
There are no tuition fees, though an optional TU Dresden enrollment fee of about 280 EUR per term applies.
Can applicants from outside physics backgrounds apply?
Applicants from chemistry, mathematics, or computer science backgrounds can apply as long as their coursework included relevant quantum or condensed matter content.
How long does the PhD typically take?
The programme is designed to be completed in about three years, including both coursework and the doctoral thesis.
Is German required for daily life in Dresden even if not for the programme?
While the academic programme operates entirely in English, many students find basic German useful for daily errands and administrative tasks in Dresden.
Can students apply to both the April and October deadlines in the same year?
Applicants generally apply to whichever deadline matches their intended start date rather than submitting to both cycles within the same year.
Does the programme offer joint supervision with international partner institutions?
Some projects involve collaboration with international research partners, giving students exposure beyond the Dresden-based research groups during their doctoral training.