Expanded focus: R&D cluster ctd.qmat launches into the future of quantum research

The dynamics of quantum systems is a central topic of current solid-state physics and a new focus of cluster research. A better understanding of quantum dynamics is seen as the key to harnessing novel phenomena in quantum materials for applications such as green energy technologies, quantum computing or highly sensitive sensor technology.

• New dynamics in the system

In addition to complexity and topology, dynamics in quantum systems is now the third focus for ctd.qmat, which will shape all research areas of the Cluster of Excellence. "Quantum dynamics is the key to understanding the phenomena discovered in the first funding period in greater depth, controlling them in a targeted manner and being able to use them technologically," emphasizes Matthias Vojta, Professor of Theoretical Solid State Physics at the TDresden University of Technology (TU Dresden) and Dresden spokesperson for the cluster. "We are looking forward to focusing even more on application concepts for our basic research in the second funding period until 2032."

• Controlling quantum processes in real time

How do quantum systems change over time, especially under time-dependent external impulses such as electric currents, magnetic fields or pressure? Questions like these are increasingly coming into focus at ctd.qmat. "Many applications in information processing, sensor technology or energy conversion are based on extremely fast switching and control processes," explains Ralph Claessen, Professor of Experimental Physics IV at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg and Würzburg cluster spokesperson. "In the second funding period, we are developing theories on complex dynamics in topological quantum materials and investigating phenomena that only occur under dynamic control." In order to measure and control ultrafast processes in real time, the experimental infrastructure is being further expanded. The aim is to develop quantum materials that function at room temperature and open up new possibilities for green energy technologies, energy-saving electronics, precise sensor technology and robust quantum bits.

• Promising research approaches

Topological catalysis is one of the particularly promising lines of research. Here, ctd.qmat scientists are investigating how topological quantum materials can be used to make electrochemical processes more economical, for example in the conversion of CO2 or the production of green hydrogen. Initial findings indicate that catalytic activity can be switched on and off through targeted time-dependent control of topological properties.

In addition, the cluster is working on new forms of topological superconductivity that could enable long-lived quantum states and more stable QuBits. Another topic is quantum sensing. Here, for example, highly sensitive measurement methods based on individual spins are being developed.

• Expansion of research and infrastructure

With the new research field C "Synthetic Quantum Matter", ctd.qmat is expanding its previous photonics focus to include artificial platforms on which quantum phenomena can be generated, amplified and precisely controlled - including those that do not occur in natural materials. There are also plans to appoint six new professorships, including experts in quantum dynamics, three at each location. A new quantum research center with state-of-the-art laboratory space will open in Dresden in 2029 together with the Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (IFW).