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.
Group photo of the IMPRS-APS at the annual meeting at Schloss Ringberg in 2025. People putting their hands up in the air, laughing and smiling. Blue sky and green grass with a building in the background.

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.

Program Highlights


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


Student Experience


▶ Annual meetings
▶ Soft-skills courses
▶ Special lectures

Latest News


Clemens Jakubeit with a group of students in the Mynaric facilities

Exploring laser communication

May 21, 2025
Our doctoral candidates had an exclusive visit at the company Mynaric, hosted by IMPRS-APS almnus Clemens Jakubeit.
Photo of Arber Selimi

Fascinated by the ability to control and observe electronic motion

May 19, 2025
Meet our new doctoral candidate Arber Selimi!
collage of IMPRS-APS students with the question "What role does light play in your research?"

Happy International Day of Light!

May 16, 2025
What role does light play in the research of our doctoral candidates? 

IMPRS-APS on Social Media

YouTube Logo
Find interviews with our doctoral candidates and alumni and impressions from our events on our YouTube channel.
LinkedIn Logo
Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest news and events from the IMPRS-APS. 
As an IMPRS-APS member or alumnus, feel free to join our exclusive LinkedIn group

Events

May 2025
Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31
Company Visit at Mynaric

May 20, 2025 from 09:30 AM to 02:30 PM (Local Time Germany)

Visit to the FRM II research reactor

Jun 20, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM (Local Time Germany)
Garching

10th Max Planck Symposium for Alumni and Early Career Researchers - SustainAbility

Jun 30, 2025 - Jul 1, 2025
Harnack-Haus (Haupteingang), Ihnestr. 16, Berlin-Dahlem

Company Visit at Marvel Fusion

Jul 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM (Local Time Germany)
CALA ; Marvel Fusion