At the QuantumFrontiers MasterClasses, upper secondary school students experience the research environment at close quarters. In one-day workshops they are introduced to current topics of quantum metrology, meet researchers, tour laboratories and carry out experiments themselves. The MasterClasses in Hannover are run by the Physics Education Working Group.
At the MasterClass Quantum Computing, held on 24 March 2026 in Hannover, seven students from Years 11–13 explored the fundamentals of quantum computing. Using the historic Stern–Gerlach experiment as a starting point, they were introduced to the basic principles of quantum physics. Following a theoretical introduction, they were able to test their first quantum algorithms with the help of a simulation.
They also discovered that while the theory of a quantum computer is one thing, putting it into practice is quite another, during a visit to the Trapped Ion Quantum Engineering Group’s laboratory at the Institute of Quantum Optics. There, Dr Celeste Torkzoban from the group led by Professor Christian Ospelkaus explained the challenges involved in developing and constructing ion traps, which serve as qubits, the basic building blocks of a quantum computer.
The MasterClass concluded with information about studying physics at Leibniz University Hannover and an exchange with researchers. During the “speed informing” session, participants were able to ask four scientists from the Institute of Theoretical Physics, as well as a physics student, about their career paths, their research and their personal experiences in study and work.
MasterClasses are offered regularly on different topics during Lower Saxony’s Easter, summer and autumn school holidays. Teachers can also arrange individual dates with their classes or course groups during term time. MasterClasses are offered in Hannover and Braunschweig.
Find out more about the MasterClasses in Hannover and Braunschweig.
