CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter
Cluster of ExcellenceCUI: Advanced
Imaging of Matter
Imaging of Matter
University of Hamburg presents successful quantum research
17 February 2026
Photo: UHH/Ostermaier-Grabow
Visit to the quantum laboratory. From left to right: Klaus von Lepel from the Ministry of Science, Research, and Equality, Prof. Dr. Hauke Heekeren, President of the University of Hamburg, Senator for Science Maryam Blumenthal, and Dr. Niclas Luick from the University of Hamburg.
Hamburg's Senator for Science Maryam Blumenthal visited the university to learn about its activities in the field of quantum technologies. She toured the Institute for Quantum Physics and the Center for Optical Quantum Technologies. Among those accompanying her was University President Hauke Heekeren.
The University of Hamburg’s research facilities have gained global recognition as leading centers for research and teaching in quantum technologies. More than 150 scientists are developing the latest quantum technologies here – from powerful quantum computers and high-precision quantum simulations to groundbreaking sensor systems. This makes the Institute for Quantum Physics and the Center for Optical Quantum Technologies key research centers where critical technologies for Germany are being developed.
Prof. Dr. Hauke Heekeren, President of the University of Hamburg, Prof. Dr. Tilo Böhmann, UHH Vice President for Research, and the Dean of the MIN Faculty, Prof. Dr. Norbert Ritter, accompanied the Senator on her tour. Prof. Dr. Klaus Sengstock, Prof. Dr. Dieter Jaksch, and Prof. Dr. Henning Moritz were on hand to answer technical questions. They highlighted the University of Hamburg's successes to date in the field of quantum research—from the opening of the two research institutes in 2003 and 2010, even before the boom in quantum technologies began, to the acquisition of around 300 million euros in third-party research funding since then and more than 250 publications and patents, and even spin-off companies that are now conducting private-sector research on the topic.
The Senator's agenda included discussions on topics related to current and future research on quantum computers, such as that conducted by the university on the Bahrenfeld campus, for example as part of its Cluster of Excellence “CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter”. Quantum technologies are also part of various bachelor's and master's degree programs as well as graduate education. Schoolchildren can also regularly learn about the new technology at the Light & Schools school lab.
