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Max Planck-Korea-PSI Center for Quantum Emergent Spintronics (KOMQUEST)

1.1.2026-31.12.2030

The Max Planck-Korea-PSI Center for Quantum Emergent Spintronics (KOMQUEST) is an international research initiative uniting the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics with three top-tier Korean institutions, POSTECH, Seoul National University (SNU), and the Institute for Basic Science (IBS), and the PSI Center for Photon Science in Switzerland. The center's primary mission is to advance the field of Quantum Emergent Spintronics (QUEST), pushing beyond conventional spin-based technologies to lay the foundation for next-generation memory, storage, and computing architectures.

Research Focus

To achieve its scientific goals, KOMQUEST focuses on four core research pillars:

  • Superconducting spintronics
  • Chiral spintronics
  • Topological spintronics
  • Spintronics for quantum-coherent control

By exploring these areas, the centre aims to probe and harness novel quantum states, including chiral spin textures, topological defects, and unconventional superconductivity. A major highlight of the center is its ability to pair advanced material synthesis capabilities with state-of-the-art, synchrotron-based spectroscopy and imaging.

Collaborative Structure

Structurally, KOMQUEST is engineered to drive highly interdisciplinary, cross-border research. This collaborative ecosystem is sustained by appointing independent, early-career group leaders who manage dynamic research teams spanning across the multiple partner institutes.

Research Areas

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Superconducting Spintronics
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Chiral Spintronics
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Topological Spintronics
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Spintronics for Quantum-Coherent Control of Materials

Partners

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SNU Logo
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