The Quantum Ideas Factory 2026 (Strasbourg)
A scientific hackathon in Strasbourg, France, where bright minds turn bold ideas into breakthroughs in quantum science and technology.
| Event Details | |
| Dates | 23 – 26 March 2026 |
| Participants | Master students and PhD researchers enrolled at European Universities |
| Type of event | Hackathon, Workshop, Seminar |
| Venue | European Center for Quantum Sciences (CESQ), 23 Rue du Loess, 67200 Strasbourg |
| Language | English |
| Wheelchair access | Yes |
| Registration required | Yes |
| Application deadline | 14 December 2026 -> Apply Now |
March 23rd to 26th, 2026
The Quantum Ideas Factory will provide a transformational learning experience at the interface between rigorous academic research and free interdisciplinary exploration. 40 participants will take part in a scientific hackathon, which will help them to develop practical skills and visionary mindset in key areas of quantum science and technologies.
During your stay in Strasbourg, you will work in a small group to transform raw research ideas into well-rounded concepts for research projects or innovative solutions to key challenges in quantum science and technology. Each challenge is proposed by an expert “mentor” from academia or the quantum industry but will be shaped by the team members themselves.
This event is organized within the EFEQT student network, which is part of the DigiQ initiative, but also open to external participants.
This event is a sister event to the Quantum Ideas Factory taking place in Jena, Germany. If you’re interested in attending that edition as well, you can find more information at: https://www.asp.uni-jena.de/16236/quantum-ideas-factory-2026
Application deadline: 14 December 2025
What it is about
Inspiring young scientists and students to think beyond borders and innovate to address globally relevant challenges in quantum science and technology.
Action learning
You will be a part of a team mentored by an experienced scientist to develop innovative solutions to outstanding problems.
Why you should attend
Spend four amazing days with like-minded and highly-motivated individuals from all over the world and develop your own problem solving skills.
Preliminary Program
| Monday, March 23 | Tuesday, March 24 | Wednesday, March 25 | Thursday, March 26 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arrival | Opening and challenge introductions | Team innovation | Prepare presentations |
| Team innovation | Team innovation | Presentations and closing | |
| Social evening | Evening event | Evening event | Job fair |
Challenge Topics
Challenge topics will be defined soon. Alternatively, if you have your own ideas, we encourage you to briefly describe it, and submit with your application. The description should outline your idea, its potential future impact, and possible implementation. Previous topics included themes from quantum computing, quantum simulation, quantum machine learning, quantum materials, quantum control, quantum software, quantum metrology, and more.
Costs and Funding
Lodging and participation costs are covered. For DigiQ students, travel costs can be covered by the home institution.
Application
Master students, doctoral candidates, young researchers and postdocs with solid science background and an innovation mindset are welcome to apply! Although the focus of the boot camp is designed for quantum science and technology, we encourage interested applicants with any natural sciences background to apply. You should especially apply if you are considering future research topics for your Master or PhD in the field.
Successful participants will be selected based upon their CV and a short description of their motivation presenting their reason for applying, and notified briefly after the application deadline by email.
Application deadline: 14 December 2025
Venue and Location
The event will take place at the European Center for Quantum Sciences (CESQ) in Strasbourg, France. The CESQ is located at Cronenbourg Campus 23 Rue du Loess 67200 Strasbourg.
Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a beautiful city in eastern France, known for its historic architecture, European institutions, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to world-class research institutions and is at the heart of European quantum research.
Contact
For further questions please contact the organizers:
Cyrille Solaro <solaro@unistra.fr>
Stanimir Kondov <kondov@unistra.fr>
Youma Mucret<mucret@unistra.fr>