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.

Latest News


Male person with glasses and a beard, wearing a blue and white striped t-shirt; standing inside of an experimental cave at the Centre for Advanced Laser Science

“I like the cross-disciplinary nature of my research”

July 16, 2025
Meet our doctoral candidate Faran Irshad!
Goutham in the forest, sitting on a tree stump.

Improving solar fuel efficiency

July 08, 2025
Meet our new doctoral candidate Goutham Reghunadhan!
Illustration of laser single shot

Capturing ultra-intense laser pulses in a single shot

July 02, 2025
A novel single-shot diagnostic technique allows scientists to measure the full structure of ultra-intense laser pulses in a single measurement.

About IMPRS-APS


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.

This initiative is part of a network of 68 International Max Planck Research Schools, which have become central to the Max Planck Society’s efforts to promote excellent doctoral education since 2000. Together, they provide talented German and international junior researchers with outstanding conditions to complete their doctorates.

Program Highlights


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


Student Experience


▶ Annual meetings
▶ Soft-skills courses
▶ Special lectures

Events

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Upcoming Events

Media Training for Scientists: Science in the Media / Message Clarification and Simplification

Jul 28, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Local Time Germany)
Am Coulombwall 1, Room: CALA Multifunktionsraum MFR (W132)

Visit to InnoLas Laser

Sep 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM (Local Time Germany)
Justus-von-Liebig-Ring 8, 82152 Krailling

Visit to the FRM II research reactor (please notice new date)

Sep 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Local Time Germany)
Garching

Upcoming Talks

No events

IMPRS-APS on Social Media

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Find interviews with our doctoral candidates and alumni and impressions from our events on our YouTube channel.
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Follow us on LinkedIn to always stay up to date with the latest news and events from the IMPRS-APS. 
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As an IMPRS-APS member or alumnus, feel free to join our exclusive LinkedIn group - a place to exchange and connect.