Focus on cooperation with the Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems
The Institute of Photonic Quantum Systems (PhoQS), Paderborn University and Pelizaeus-Gymnasium Paderborn have signed a cooperation agreement. This should not only form a new basis for the good cooperation, but also intensify it. Together, the contractual partners want to strengthen pupils' interest in scientific and technical issues in the subjects of Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. The focus of the collaboration is to give the school access to the innovative technologies of quantum systems. "The cooperation is an important step towards further expanding the connection between Paderborn University and Pelizaeus-Gymnasium. In this way, we offer pupils the opportunity to find out about scientific and technical study programmes and career paths at an early stage so that they can make an informed decision," says Professor Dr. Matthias Bauer, President of Paderborn University.
Research into photonic, i.e. light-based, quantum technologies is of particular importance for key optical technologies with a very broad field of application - from communication technology to sensor technology. "We want to show students the prospect of studying science and technology and give them an insight into this fascinating work. The future is created in the minds of young people. That's why it's important to us to support the promotion of young talent through collaborations like this," explains Professor Dr Christine Silberhorn, spokesperson of PhoQS. "As part of our collaboration, we also want to specifically encourage schoolgirls to seriously consider STEM subjects when choosing a degree programme and career. Our female scientists and doctoral candidates serve as role models here and we hope to strengthen interest with special offers."
The Pelizaeus-Gymnasium and the PhoQS have already worked together successfully. As recently as November 2025, Dr Rainer Eckel, physics teacher at Pelizaeus-Gymnasium, and Dr Anna Bauer, coordinator for the promotion of young talent at PhoQS, jointly organised a "MINT-EC Camp" in the form of a three-day research and experimentation workshop for 15 pupils from all over Germany. The new cooperation agreement will be used to realise further offers for pupils in the future. "We are delighted to have a strong partner at our side in PhoQS, whose support enables us to provide our students with offers that would not exist without the cooperation," says Dr Peter Lütke Westhues, Headmaster of Pelizaeus-Gymnasium.
