MCQST START Fellowship

The START Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for postdocs on their transition to independent researchers. With a total budget of €300,000 for a funding period of two years, the fellows have the opportunity to start their own scientific project. The first cohort of fellows is in the process of becoming independent and have already obtained permanent positions or professorships. We look forward to supporting more young researchers in this way and following their career paths.

Why should you apply for a MCQST fellowship?

• Independence - fellows are provided with their own budget, office, and lab space (offered by one of our PIs) for independent research allowing them to build their profile.
• Developing leadership skills - With their own budget, START fellows have the opportunity to build a small research group and gain experience in managing their own team.
• Mentoring - START Fellows have a hosting and mentoring PI who offers lab/ office space and academic advice along with extra resources. Distinguished postdocs can benefit from our mentoring program.
• Benefiting from the cluster - The fellows are integrated into the cluster and benefit from its programs, like Seed Funding, workshops, and international collaborations.

About MCQST

The Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology (MCQST) is a Cluster of Excellence funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) since 2019. Our collaborative network includes LMU Munich, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ), Walther-Meißner-Institute (WMI), and the Deutsches Museum (DM). Together, we aim to make Munich a global hub in Quantum Science and Technology.

With over 60 research groups spanning disciplines from physics and mathematics to computer science and materials science, MCQST covers the full spectrum of Quantum Science and Technology, from foundational research to applied solutions. We are committed to a fair, transparent selection process and fostering an inclusive environment for all.

Discover more about the fellowship on our website.

How to Apply?

Applications should include:

• Curriculum vitae (two pages max, without photo)
• Research outline (two pages max)
• Complete list of publications and talks (please highlight 3 publications that best represent your research)
• Doctoral certificate
• Support letter from MCQST host committing to offer laboratory and office space
• Two letters of recommendation, at least one from an external expert (outside MCQST)

Send all application documents to support[at]mcqst.de by 19 January 2025.