Germany Renews Funding for ML4Q Quantum Research Collaboration

May 23, 2025 — The Cluster of Excellence Matter and Light for Quantum Computing (ML4Q) will receive continued funding in the next phase of Germany’s Excellence Strategy, as announced this week in Bonn by the German Council of Science and Humanities and the German Research Foundation (DFG).

The renewed funding recognizes the cluster’s scientific accomplishments during the first funding period (2019–2025) and affirms the strength of its research agenda for advancing future quantum computing technologies.

ML4Q is a collaborative initiative involving the University of Cologne (host institution), the University of Bonn, RWTH Aachen University, and Forschungszentrum Jülich. The cluster tackles foundational physical and technological challenges in scalable, reliable quantum computing—from high-performance qubit development to modular system architectures and the interface between quantum hardware and software.

“This renewed funding allows us to further harness the synergistic strengths of our broad research network and achieve breakthroughs in key areas of quantum technology,” said Alex Altland, cluster spokesperson and professor of theoretical physics at the University of Cologne. “In the next phase, we will place particular emphasis on the integration of quantum hardware and software.”

With a second seven-year funding period now confirmed, ML4Q will build on its strong partnerships and continue to integrate world-class expertise in condensed matter physics, quantum optics, and quantum information science. Its research centers on four complementary quantum information platforms. In this next phase, the cluster will also welcome new partners from the universities of Siegen, Paderborn, and Berlin—broadening its technical capabilities and deepening its theoretical foundations.

ML4Q remains committed to training the next generation of quantum scientists. Key programs supporting early-career independence, international collaboration, and diversity, equity, and inclusion will continue to be core elements of the cluster’s mission.

The University of Cologne will continue to serve as the lead institution and, together with its partners, guide the strategic and organizational direction of the cluster. The decision to extend funding further establishes North Rhine-Westphalia as a rising international hub for quantum research.

Additional press releases from partner universities on other funded clusters:

Source: ML4Q