CQTA | A DESY. quantum center
Bridging the gap between
quantum research and
industrial utility.
At CQTA, we enable researchers and companies to explore the potential of quantum technologies through access to emerging hardware, novel algorithms, and DESY's world-class facilities.
Research.
Located at DESY's Zeuthen site in Brandenburg, just outside Berlin, CQTA combines the rigorous methods of theoretical physics with the practical needs of industry. We focus on two core pillars to accelerate the path toward useful quantum technologies: quantum computing and quantum sensing.
Discover our research areas!Industry.
As an IBM Quantum Hub, we provide access to superconducting qubit systems. In collaboration with IonQ, CQTA successfully demonstrated the potential for quantum combinatorial optimization. Using the Quantinuum H1 processor, our team was first to simulate "string breaking" in 2D, a core phenomenon in high-energy physics.
Leverage our expertise and insights!Policy.
As part of the Helmholtz Association and DESY, CQTA is a hub for quantum innovation, linking basic research with industrial application. We are a key partner in the Berlin-Brandenburg quantum space, ensuring our partners benefit from a deeply interconnected research environment.
Learn about our strategy!News.
Brandenburg Quantum Technology Network Meeting.
Our recent meeting with the academic partners of the Brandenburg Quantum Technology Network sparked exciting discussions on new collaborative opportunities and upcoming networking activities. We look forward to our follow-up meeting with industry partners in June.
🗓️ March 17, 2026
📍 DESY CQTA
Visitors at CQTA.
We're very excited to welcome our visitors Asmita Datta and Rocco Barač from the Prof. Simone Montangero's group at the University of Padova! It's a real pleasure to have them here with us, and we're looking forward to inspiring discussions, exchanging ideas, and exploring new possibilities together in the field of quantum computing.
🗓️ March 9-13, 2026
📍 DESY CQTA
Pint of Science: Quantum Frontiers and Bacterial Fortresses.
CQTA participates in Pint of Science where people can learn about science while enjoying a cold pint of beer!
🗓️ November 3, 2025
📍 Ringbar, Schwarzastraße 1
Workshop Quantum Computers and Art 2025.
We explore the connections between quantum computers and art in this interdisciplinary event where scientists and artists rethought the boundaries of creativity and research.
🗓️ July 9-11, 2025
📍 DESY, Zeuthen
Joint workshop with the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt.
Our first joint workshop with the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) took place: “Quantum Computing for Industry: From Vision to Application”. Nine distinguished speakers present topics on quantum computing to around 40 participants.
🗓️ March 24, 2025
📍 PTB, Berlin
Next event.
Brandenburg Quantum Technology Network Meeting with industry partners.
After this year's initial meeting with our academic partners, we're engaging industry partners in a follow-up session to expand collaboration and networking.
🗓️ June 3, 2026
📍 DESY, Zeuthen
For more information, contact Stefan Kühn (CQTA) or Anne Techen (WFBB).
About us.
A legacy of discovery.
Founded in Hamburg in 1959, DESY has spent over six decades building the world's most advanced discovery machines. Originally the Institute for High Energy Physics (IfH), the Zeuthen site became part of DESY in 1991, making it one of the first successful scientific mergers of German reunification.
Our Center for Quantum Technology and Application (CQTA), based at the DESY's Zeuthen site, paves the way for quantum technologies' leap from fundamental research to quantum utility. In the context of this profound shift, we serve as the connecting node between science, policy and industry in the regional, national and European innovation ecosystem.
Get to know our team!
