Max Planck School of Photonics (MPSP)
The Max Planck School of Photonics (MPSP) is a top tier interdisciplinary graduate school in Germany that provides and coordinates an integrated PhD program in photonics for excellent graduates from all over the world. Our PhD candidates can conduct their research at one of the network partner institutions, i.e. top-ranking German universities or renowned research institutions in many different locations across Germany.
What does the MPSP offer?
The MPSP offers a PhD program which is structured in two phases. During the first phase, which we call the study phase, candidates obtain a Master’s degree in photonics from one of three teaching universities in Erlangen, Jena or Karlsruhe. During the second phase, called the research phase, candidates conduct research under the supervision of one of the 48 MPSP Fellows. Besides excellent networking opportunities, the MPSP offers generous scholarships and a supporting curriculum to foster interactions between the different photonics-related disciplines, strengthen the research network and to advance personal and professional skills.
Why Photonics?
Photonics is a dynamic physical science which focusses on light itself, (the photon) creation, manipulation, control and photonics applications in everyday life. As the main catalyst and key technology for various research areas and innovative branches of industry, this scientific discipline has faced a tremendous increase in importance in the 21st century. It has gained such importance that this century is predicted to be the age of photonics, as the 20th century was for electronics. Graduates with a background in physics and a passion for light are encouraged to continue their education in the photonics area - not only in order to benefit from numerous career opportunities in both academia or the industry, but also to have the opportunity to contribute directly to the fundamental core of photonics.
Why study at the MPSP in Germany?
Germany plays a central role in modern photonics research and education within Europe. German researchers established in a diverse landscape of universities and research organizations produce excellent contributions to all photonics-related disciplines and fields: from attosecond physics to quantum optics, from fundamental research to industry-oriented applications.
The MPSP connects the most promising junior researchers with the best scientists within the photonics landscape in Germany, across different nationwide locations, disciplines, and institutes. From the beginning, students are actively encouraged to participate and establish themselves in the German research system. They join research groups of their choice and contribute to the unique research infrastructure with their projects. Social events, workshops and training programs bring together emerging scientists as well as the most renowned scientists within the German photonics field and helps to establish a close network between the various actors. The MPSP thus educates the best international junior scientists in an environment of excellence.
