The International Max Planck Research School for Quantum Dynamics and Control (IMPRS-QDC) is accepting applications for its current autumn 2026 PhD round until 31 October 2026. The school recruits international doctoral candidates in physics, chemistry, mathematics and computer science for research in quantum dynamics, control, condensed-matter physics, quantum information, quantum optics and related theoretical/computational fields.
IMPRS-QDC Multiple PhD Positions 2026
IMPRS-QDC is hosted by the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems and brings together partner institutions in Dresden, Prague and Wrocław. Applications are received twice each year and are open to talented candidates regardless of nationality.
| Programme | International Max Planck Research School for Quantum Dynamics and Control |
|---|---|
| Host network | MPI-PKS, TU Dresden and partner institutions in Germany, Czech Republic and Poland |
| Current call | Autumn 2026 application round |
| Deadline | 31 October 2026 |
| Typical PhD duration | About 3 years |
| Programme language | English |
| Current status | Open |
Research Areas
The school focuses on dynamical manipulation and control of quantum systems, primarily through theoretical and computational research.
- quantum dynamics and control;
- atomic, molecular and laser physics;
- condensed-matter physics;
- quantum information and quantum simulation;
- quantum optics;
- materials science;
- open quantum systems and quantum thermodynamics;
- many-body physics and non-equilibrium phenomena; and
- related computational and interdisciplinary topics.
Eligibility
- Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a Master’s degree or equivalent university qualification.
- Typical academic backgrounds include physics, chemistry, mathematics or computer science.
- Applicants should have research interests relevant to atomic, molecular, condensed-matter phenomena or materials science.
- The competition is international and open regardless of nationality.
- Good written and spoken English is expected.
Funding and Study Conditions
IMPRS-QDC states that successful candidates receive financial support sufficient to cover living expenses. The programme also states that there are no tuition fees for the doctoral training programme.
| Financial support | Contract/stipend structure fully covering living expenses. |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees | No tuition fees for the training programme. |
| Optional TU Dresden enrolment | About €280 per term, including public transport, according to the current programme FAQ. |
| PhD duration | About three years, with flexible start timing depending on project and host. |
| Degree | Conferred by TU Dresden or the relevant partner/home university depending on the doctoral arrangement. |
Required Application Documents
The current application procedure lists the following materials:
- completed IMPRS-QDC application form;
- curriculum vitae;
- graduate degree certificate(s) and grade transcripts;
- proof of English proficiency;
- two reference letters submitted by the referees during the application period.
The current form/instructions require the applicant’s documents to be merged into a single PDF within the stated file-size limit.
How to Apply
- Review the official IMPRS-QDC research areas and partner institutions.
- Download and complete the current application form during the active six-week application period.
- Prepare your CV, academic certificates/transcripts and English-language evidence.
- Arrange two academic referees early so their letters arrive before the deadline.
- Upload the completed application package through the official submission route.
- Complete submission by 31 October 2026.
Current Selection Timeline
| Application deadline | 31 October 2026 |
|---|---|
| Pre-selection | November 2026 |
| Pre-selection decision | No later than 15 December 2026 |
| Interviews | November 2026–January 2027, flexibly scheduled |
| Spring-term start | 1 April 2027; individual starting date can be flexible |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IMPRS-QDC open for applications?
Yes. The current autumn 2026 round closes on 31 October 2026.
Who can apply?
Applicants generally need a Master’s degree or equivalent in physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer science or a closely related area, with research interests relevant to the programme.
Are the PhD positions funded?
Yes. IMPRS-QDC states that successful candidates receive support fully covering living expenses.
Are IELTS or TOEFL mandatory?
No. The current FAQ says they are not mandatory, although good English is required and test results can support the application.
How often does IMPRS-QDC recruit?
The programme runs two application rounds per year, with April 30 and October 31 as the published recurring deadlines.
Official IMPRS-QDC Sources
| Current application procedure | Confirms the 15 September–31 October 2026 call. |
|---|---|
| Deadlines page | Confirms the spring-term October 31 deadline, November pre-selection and November–January interviews. |
| General information | Confirms Master’s-level eligibility, research fields, three-year thesis and funded positions. |
| FAQ | Confirms living-expense support, no tuition fees and optional TU Dresden semester fee. |
| Last verified | 4 October 2026 |
