Going quantum

July 29, 2026

On our recent visit to planqc, doctoral researchers from IMPRS-QST and IMPRS-APS gained insights into a quantum computing company.

Group of people attending a presentation in a modern office space.

What is the fastest way to deliver millions of packages? How will a new drug interact with the molecules inside the human body? These are the kinds of complex questions that even the today’s most powerful supercomputers struggle with. Quantum computers promise a fundamentally different approach based on quantum physics that has the potential to solve these kinds of problems faster and more accurately.

One of those working on the development of quantum computers is planqc. The company, which was founded in 2022 as a spin-off from the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics, is pursuing neutral atoms as qubits, the building blocks of quantum computers.

Recently, doctoral candidates from the IMPRS-APS had the opportunity to visit planqc in Garching during a visit organized by the IMPRS-QST. The visit consisted of a well-rounded mix of presentations, tours and time for informal exchange with planqc employees.

The program included a company presentation by Chief Business Officer Marcus Hennig, followed by parallel technical deep dive sessions on the algorithms and hardware developed at planqc and tours of laboratories and the office. The researchers also learned about three different career paths from academia to planqc. Several casual get-togethers also provided the students with plenty of chances to interact and exchange with various planqc employees over coffee, drinks and lunch.

Thanks to planqc for the interesting insights into the development of quantum computers, and in particular to Julia Koller and Jan Runhaar for the organization of the event from the planqc side and to Sonya Gzyl from the IMPRS-QST. We would also like to thank all of the planqc employees who participated in the event.

Man wearing glasses and a vibrant fruit-patterned shirt engaging with doctoral researchers in a modern office.

Davide Dreon, Head of Product Development at planqc, gave a technical deep-dive session about quantum hardware developed at the company.

In a modern office environment, a smiling woman stands and speaks to a group of people seated around tables, with plants and office furniture visible in the background.

Martina Matusko, Quantum Hardware Engineer at planqc, spoke about her career path involving stations both in academia and in industry.

Four men in casual attire discussing near a large window decorated with circular stickers, with food items and beverages visible on a table in the foreground.

The researchers had plenty of time to exchange with employees of planqc.

Pictures: Nina Beier

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