PhD Positions in Physics and Chemistry of Quantum Materials: IMPRS-CPQM

Overview of the IMPRS-CPQM PhD Positions

IMPRS-CPQM is a joint doctoral research school focused on solid-state chemistry, condensed matter physics, and quantum materials. Students can work across the traditional boundary between chemistry and physics.

For the 2027 intake, the school is recruiting multiple PhD students for inter-institutional research projects. Applicants from any country can apply. The current call seeks candidates with an outstanding Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a field aligned with the school’s research activities.

The application deadline is 30 November 2026. Candidates admitted through this recruitment cycle are expected to start their projects no later than September 2027. The school also accepts applications at other times of the year and may process them individually.

Why Choose a PhD in Quantum Materials at IMPRS-CPQM?

Quantum materials research explores unusual electronic, magnetic, optical, and structural properties that emerge from quantum effects. The field includes topics such as superconductivity, topology, magnetism, electronic correlations, and nanoscale phenomena.

IMPRS-CPQM offers a notably broad research portfolio. Current projects include topological superconductivity, quantum magnetism, multiferroics, pressure-tuned materials, photoemission, quantum magnetometry, theory, and materials synthesis. Several projects cross chemistry and physics.

Current Research Areas and PhD Projects

The project list includes more than 20 options. Examples include:

• • Advanced synthesis and characterization of arsenic-based materials.

  • Altermagnetic and antialtermagnetic multiferroics.

  • Angle-resolved photoemission of tailored mesostructures.

  • Chiral superconductivity and chirality control.

  • Quantum-material studies using nuclear-spin and muon-spin resonance.

  • Topological superconductivity and hybrid quantum circuits.

  • Pressure tuning of topological materials.

  • Theory of spin liquids and non-trivial superconductors.

  • Thermodynamics of designer quantum materials.

Each PhD project has at least one supervisor at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids and one at a partner university. Students may spend research time at more than one institution, depending on the project.

Therefore, applicants should read individual project descriptions before drafting a motivation letter. A broad interest in “quantum materials” is helpful. However, a clear connection to specific projects is much stronger.

Eligibility for IMPRS-CPQM

The school seeks excellent academic performance and a research match. Both Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates can apply. Bachelor’s entrants may need additional graduate coursework to reach an equivalent Master’s level.

Importantly, previous research in quantum materials is not compulsory. The official FAQ states that related research experience can help, but applicants do not need prior experience in the exact field. Students with non-standard scientific backgrounds may also apply when their preparation fits the program.

International applicants do not need German language skills for admission. English is the common language in most research projects. In general, no language certificate is required, although University of St Andrews projects can have additional English-language requirements.

Financial Support for Quantum Materials PhD Students

Funding depends on the country where the research is performed. In Germany, students receive remuneration under the contract basis used for PhD students at Max Planck Institutes. In the UK, students receive the national stipend rate for science students. The University of St Andrews also covers the tuition fees it charges as part of its contribution to the program.

It also provides graduate courses and general skills training as part of the research experience.

How to Apply for IMPRS-CPQM

1. Study the project list

First, review the available PhD projects and note their research methods, supervisors, and scientific questions. Then shortlist the projects that best match your background.

2. Prepare the required documents

The application guidelines request a cover letter, complete academic CV, and transcript of courses and grades. Applicants may also upload additional supporting documents. Files should be prepared as separate PDFs with clear filenames.

3. Apply through the online form

Applications must be submitted through the official online form. The school does not consider applications sent by email. It also asks applicants not to send applications directly to individual principal investigators.

4. Prepare for interviews and selection

Supervisors and a selection team review written applications. Short-listed candidates are then invited to interviews. For the 2026/27 cycle, the school plans an in-person selection workshop in or around February 2027 in Dresden.

Expert Tips for a Strong Application

A strong application should demonstrate fit rather than simply list qualifications. Therefore, connect your previous work to the methods or questions of your preferred project.

For instance, an Indian physics graduate working on magnetic materials can highlight experimental methods and data analysis. A chemistry applicant can connect synthesis, spectroscopy, or characterization skills to an interdisciplinary project.

Avoid one generic statement for every project. Instead, explain why your selected projects fit your interests. Also, contact referees early. The school may request references later, but it specifically asks applicants not to have referees send letters immediately.

Finally, proofread every PDF. Check project names, grades, filenames, and contact details before submission.

Summary Table