International Max Planck Research School on Advanced Photon Science (IMPRS-APS)

The International Max Planck Research School on Advanced Photon Science (IMPRS-APS) is a graduate school dedicated to the advancement of photon science, with a particular focus on cutting-edge research and applications of photonics. Established in 2006 at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) and directed by Nobel Laureate Prof. Dr. Ferenc Krausz, the IMPRS-APS provides a unique and stimulating environment for PhD students who are passionate about exploring the frontiers of light-matter interaction. 

Research Areas

The IMPRS-APS covers a broad spectrum of research areas within photon science, including: 

• Ultrafast laser science, attosecond physics, and high-precision spectroscopy.
• Laser technologies, including the development of unique light sources.
• Biomedical applications, including advanced spectroscopic methods for molecular fingerprinting and biomedical imaging.
• Computational physics & data science.
• Laser plasma physics & laser particle acceleration.

Program Highlights

• Interdisciplinary collaboration: The IMPRS-APS fosters a collaborative environment that encourages students to engage with researchers from various disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine. 
• Cutting-edge facilities: Students have access to world-class research facilities and resources at MPQ, LMU, TUM, VUT, and TU Graz, enabling them to conduct innovative experiments and contribute to ground-breaking discoveries. 
• Comprehensive training: The IMPRS-APS provides comprehensive training and educational opportunities, including coursework, workshops, and mentoring, to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful research career. 
• Career development: The program is committed to supporting students' career development, offering guidance and resources for both academic and industry career paths. 

Student Experience

• Annual meetings: The program hosts annual meetings where students can present their research, network with peers and faculty, and foster collaborations. 
• Soft-skills courses: The IMPRS-APS offers soft-skills courses to help students develop essential skills such as scientific writing, communication, and time management.
• Special lectures: Week-long intensive courses (block lectures) are organized every second year to delve deeper into specific topics, providing students with in-depth knowledge and insights from experts in the field. 

Additional information

The IMPRS-APS website (http://www2.mpq.mpg.de/APS) is currently being updated. For up-to-date information, please visit the websites of the IMPRS-APS group leaders:

If there is a group you are particularly interested in, please do not hesitate to contact the corresponding group leader in addition to submitting your application on https://www.application.imprs-aps.mpg.de/public.