Hahn-Schickard joins the QuantumBW network
The Institute for Microelectronics Stuttgart (IMS CHIPS) is the youngest member of the QuantumBW Network and a driving force for innovation in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, particularly in the field of electronic and photonic integration technologies. These areas form key components for quantum technologies in the form of nanostructuring and the high integration of electronic circuits. With IMS CHIPS, the quantum ecosystem in the region is growing by an institute that combines scientific precision with industrial application in these important technologies.
Quantum technologies are one of the key technologies of the 21st century. They are opening up completely new possibilities in the fields of computing, communication and sensor technology. IMS CHIPS contributes to these developments with scalable electronic and photonic integration technologies. QuantumBW is delighted about the new addition to the network, which, as a driving force in these areas, is advancing the industrial application of quantum technologies in Baden-Württemberg.
Over the next eight years, QuantumBW aims to achieve broad availability of quantum sensors in mass markets in Baden-Württemberg along its quantum sensor technology roadmap. This is only possible with strong partners like IMS CHIPS, who, together with the other players from the QuantumBW network, have the potential to bring the first volume products in the field of quantum sensor technology to market in THE LÄND.
Research and development in scalable quantum sensors offers the opportunity to secure a sustainable technological advantage for Baden-Württemberg, Germany, through a disruptive cutting-edge technology, similar to what MEMS technology achieved at the beginning of the millennium.”
IMS CHIPS (Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart) is committed to cutting-edge research and groundbreaking innovations in key technologies of the future. As a leading institution in the fields of integrated circuits and systems, silicon photonics, M(E)MS technologies and nanostructuring, the IMS combines scientific precision with industrial application.
In close cooperation with the University of Stuttgart and as part of the Baden-Württemberg Innovation Alliance, the institute develops customized solutions — from high-precision one-offs to specialized small-batch productions.
With its pioneering research projects, IMS CHIPS is setting new standards in lithography, medical technology, optics and photonics, smart sensor technology, industry 4.0 and artificial intelligence. Through its involvement in high-profile projects, the institute is driving progress, precision and sustainable technology development worldwide.
The commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency is a central component of the institute’s work. It secures and expands the research and development of cutting-edge technologies in Germany. In doing so, it relies on transparent and sustainable processes and acts as a reliable partner to German industry. Particularly in the field of process development for nanostructuring, the institute sets new standards and makes an important contribution to the country’s innovative strength.
Successful start of the quantum roadshow
In the International Year of Quantum Technologies, QuantumBW, together with its partners Photonics BW and the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), invites to the Quantum Roadshow on four dates. The successful kick-off took place in Aalen on February 25. The focus of the event was on the current state of technology in the three subject areas of quantum computing, quantum sensors and quantum communication. At the digiZ location Aalen of the IHK Ostwürttemberg, quantum technology manufacturers from the QuantumBW network and potential end users from the region came together for a fruitful exchange.
In the subsequent interactive exchange formats, there were lively discussions on the topics of quantum computing, sensing and communication. The central topic was how these technologies can be utilized and thus brought into application. In addition, visitors were able to experience quantum technologies first hand through various demonstrators.
The event featured an exciting program:
The event in Aalen marked the start of the quantum roadshow, which QuantumBW is organizing together with its partners Photonics BW and the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK) to mark the International Year of Quantum Technologies 2025. The roadshow will be visiting three more locations this year:
Opening of two Quantum Communication Test Tracks
Baden-Württemberg is positioning itself as Germany’s leading location for quantum communication technologies. With the opening of two important test tracks in Karlsruhe and Ulm, a decisive step has been taken towards realizing the potential of quantum communication and quantum networks.
On January 22, 2025, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) inaugurated a 20-kilometer-long fiber optic test line that connects specially equipped laboratories on the South and North campuses. The track will enable researchers to develop and test quantum key distribution technologies based on physical laws to ensure eavesdropping-proof communication. The test track is a central infrastructure of the Cluster of Excellence initiative “Chem4Quant” and supports the research on quantum repeaters, which are essential for the development of a future quantum internet.
At the same time, the University of Ulm, in cooperation with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), put a 2.5‑kilometer quantum key distribution link into operation on February 27, 2025. This link, the first between a university and a non-university institution in Baden-Württemberg, enables the secure transmission of information using quantum keys. The project benefits from DLR’s expertise in optical communications and quantum computing and represents a significant step towards the practical application of quantum-based encryption techniques.
Both test tracks are an integral part of the innovation strategy of the state’s QuantumBW initiative. The planned connection of the test tracks via the University of Stuttgart will create a statewide network that will drive the quantum revolution in Baden-Württemberg. This strategic development strengthens the region as a leading location for quantum research and applications and helps to increase security in areas such as medicine, finance and politics.
With these initiatives, Baden-Württemberg underscores its role as a pioneer in quantum communication and offers researchers a unique platform for research and development of cutting-edge quantum technologies.