Scientists in protective clothing behind an optical setup.

Exploring the Frontiers of Light-Matter Interaction

The International Max Planck Research School for Advanced Photon Science (IMPRS-APS) is a graduate school dedicated to the advancement of photon science, spanning areas such as ultrafast laser science, attosecond physics, high-precision spectroscopy, biomedical applications of advanced spectroscopic methods, data science, and laser particle acceleration. Doctoral candidates benefit from extensive training opportunities, including interdisciplinary scientific knowledge, soft skills, industry exposure, and more.

Latest News


A male person with laser goggles, hair net and blue lab coat hunched over an optical table, adjusting some optical components.

“Science, especially experimental science, is not just about being smart”

January 07, 2026
Meet our doctoral candidate Wei Liang (梁崴)!
text: 2025 in Review

Recap of the year

December 19, 2025
We are looking back at an eventful year 2025.
Green background with an illustrated earth surrounded by the words "Christmas around the world" and the flags of China, Italy, Germany and India

Christmas traditions around the world

December 22, 2025
4 doctoral candidates share their experiences.

About IMPRS-APS


Established in 2006 at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) and directed by Nobel Laureate Prof. 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.

This initiative is part of a network of 68 International Max Planck Research Schools, which have become central to the Max Planck Society’s efforts to promote excellent doctoral education since 2000. Together, they provide talented German and international junior researchers with outstanding conditions to complete their doctorates.

Program Highlights


▶ Interdisciplinary collaboration
▶ Cutting-edge facilities
▶ Comprehensive training
▶ Career development


Student Experience


▶ Annual meetings
▶ Soft-skills courses
▶ Special lectures

Events

January 2026
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“Physical Devices that Learn” (Prof. Florian Marquardt)

Jan 13, 2026 at 02:30 PM (Local Time Germany)

“Subcycle anatomy of quantum materials” ( Prof. Rupert Huber)

Jan 21, 2026 at 03:00 PM (Local Time Germany)

Wednesday 15:00!

Save the Date:

Upcoming Events

Online Workshop: Effective Visual Communication of Science

Feb 6, 2026 09:00 AM - 01:30 PM (Local Time Germany)
ONLINE

Annual Meeting 2026

Mar 25, 2026 - Mar 27, 2026
Schloss Ringberg

Upcoming Talks

“Physical Devices that Learn” (Prof. Florian Marquardt)

Jan 13, 2026 02:30 PM (Local Time Germany)
Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics, Hans-Kopferman-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Room: Herbert Walther Lecture Hall

“Subcycle anatomy of quantum materials” ( Prof. Rupert Huber)

Wednesday 15:00!
Jan 21, 2026 03:00 PM (Local Time Germany)
Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics, Hans-Kopferman-Straße 1, 85748 Garching, Room: Herbert Walther Lecture Hall

IMPRS-APS on Social Media

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Find interviews with our doctoral candidates and alumni and impressions from our events on our YouTube channel.
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Follow us on LinkedIn to always stay up to date with the latest news and events from the IMPRS-APS. 
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As an IMPRS-APS member or alumnus, feel free to join our exclusive LinkedIn group - a place to exchange and connect.

 

 

 

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