Saxony's research networks for quantum technologies
Quantum systems are regarded as key technologies of the 21st century. Important components of Saxony's technology strategy are the "Center for Applied Quantum Computing Saxony (QAPPS)" and the resulting "Saxon Research Network for Quantum Technologies (SAX-QT)".
Center for Applied Quantum Computing Saxony (QAPPS)
Quantum computers can solve certain tasks far faster than today's binary computers, even cracking some codes that would take normal computers centuries to calculate. Quantum communication, in turn, promises tap-proof information paths. Super-sensitive quantum sensors are likely to trigger an evolutionary leap in the electronics industry.
In Saxony, the Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU operates the Center for Applied Quantum Computing Saxony - QAPPS for short - together with the Fraunhofer Institutes IIS, IAIS and IOSB and the Technical Universities of Dresden and Leipzig. The focus is on the development of quantum software and computer technology in theory and practice.
QAPPS places a particular focus on research and development cooperation with partners from industry and society. For example, the QAPPS consortium analyzes problems and application scenarios for industry and develops pilot solutions. Access to the latest quantum machines from IBM and a mobile quantum computer based on NV center technology are available for this purpose. The aim is to transfer the advantages of quantum computing into demonstrators, pilot solutions and ultimately into productive practical applications.
In terms of research and teaching, the QAPPS consortium focuses on scientific questions relating to quantum computing and its future developments. "In addition to basic research, we are building up a knowledge base on current techniques and algorithms in order to use and further develop them for training at universities and by interested partners," says the consortium. In this way, the specialists of tomorrow will be prepared for the upcoming quantum revolution and Saxony will be established as a leading center for quantum computing.
QAPPSSaxon Research Network for Quantum Technologies (SAX-QT)
With the official launch of the Saxon Research Network for Quantum Technologies (SAX-QT) at the end of 2025, leading research institutions and universities in Saxony are pooling their expertise to create a powerful quantum ecosystem "Made in Saxony". The aim is to strategically bundle and further expand Saxony's expertise in the field of quantum technologies and make it internationally visible. The network is coordinated by the Zittau / Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, the Fraunhofer Institutes for Photonic Microsystems IPMS (Dresden) and for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU (Chemnitz) as well as the Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research IFW Dresden.
The SAX-QT network, also known as QUANTUM Saxony, brings together expertise from universities and non-university research institutions and involves associations, start-ups and industrial partners. The aim is to develop quantum technologies in all areas and bring them into industrial application. The network sees itself as an open platform that continuously integrates further partners and intensifies the exchange between research, industry and politics. Saxony's interdisciplinarity - from materials science to micro- and nanoelectronics to software development - is thus specifically promoted in the direction of commercial use.
The development of qualified specialists is also a central concern: targeted education and training programs will be used to train junior staff and quantum experts for research and industry.
The EU and the Free State of Saxony are supporting the development phase of the network until the end of 2027 with three million euros in ERDF funding. This will create a permanent structure that creates national and international visibility and enables close links to European pilot lines.
SAX-QT QUANTUM SAXONY