From 23 to 27 February 2026, the QVLS Winter School at Leibniz University Hannover brought together early-career researchers from Germany and beyond for an intensive programme focused on quantum computing and quantum logic with trapped ions.
Throughout the week, the Winter School combined in-depth lectures with practical insights and space for discussion. Core topics included ion-trap physics, quantum gates, algorithms, error correction, and quantum simulation—taught by an interdisciplinary group of experts spanning theory, experiment, and applications.
Lectures were delivered by Christian Ospelkaus, Robert Raußendorf, and Tobias Osborne, alongside Dr. Marius Schulte and Dr. Friederike Giebel. Their diverse perspectives offered participants a comprehensive view of current developments in trapped-ion quantum technologies.
A particular highlight of the week was the visit to the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), where participants gained insights into high-precision measurement techniques and their relevance for quantum technologies.
Beyond the academic programme, the Winter School placed strong emphasis on exchange and community. Dedicated discussion sessions, collaborative working formats, and informal moments created opportunities for connection and new perspectives. A shared evening at the GOP Varieté-Theater Hannover provided a memorable setting to round off the week.
As an annual event, the QVLS Winter School has become an integral part of the quantum ecosystem in Lower Saxony—fostering knowledge exchange while strengthening connections between emerging talent, research, and application.