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.
Quantum Futures: Designing the Futures of Quantum Technologies
We contributed two hands-on sessions on quantum computing to artists and creative practitioners at Quantum Futures, Universität der Künste Berlin.
🗓️ April - July 2026
📍 Universität der Künste Berlin
DESY Zeuthen Open Day
CQTA was part of the DESY Zeuthen Open Day, where we hosted a stand and gave two public talks to bring quantum technology closer to the public.
🗓️ June 6, 2026
📍 DESY, Zeuthen
Brandenburg QT-Network Follow-up Meeting
We hosted the Brandenburg Quantum Technology Network for a follow-up meeting at DESY Zeuthen, bringing together academic and industry partners to advance regional quantum collaboration.
🗓️ June 3, 2026
📍 DESY, Zeuthen
Brandenburg Quantum Technology Network Meeting
Our recent meeting with the academic partners of the Brandenburg Quantum Technology Network featured presentations from SAX-QT Quantum Saxony, TH Wildau on the QuantumGyro project, and CQTA — sparking discussions on new collaborations.
🗓️ March 17, 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
An event for the fascinating potential for connections between quantum computers and art brought together scientists and artists.
🗓️ July 9-11, 2025
📍 DESY, Zeuthen
Next event.
Quantum Computing for Industry - From Fundamentals to Simulation
As quantum computing moves from theory to reality, this full-day workshop equips you with the concepts and practical insights to grasp what quantum simulation means for industrial applications.
🗓️ Sep 21, 2026
📍 PTB, Berlin
For more information and registration here
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 Applications (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!
