Excellent ideas - Nobel Prize explained simply: Macroscopic quantum effects in electrical circuits

The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics honors groundbreaking work on superconducting quantum circuits —a technology considered the foundation of modern quantum computers. But what exactly does this entail?

In his lecture, Prof. Dr. Henry Schade provides an accessible overview of the award-winning research. He explains how quantum effects can be made observable in relatively large technical systems and why these findings are relevant far beyond the realm of basic research.

The lecture is aimed at students, university staff, interested members of the public, and anyone curious about current developments in physics. No prior knowledge is required.

What exactly will the lecture cover?

• Why superconducting circuits play a central role in quantum research
• How quantum effects can be detected in macroscopic systems
• What exactly the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics recognizes
• The significance of this research for future technologies

Following the lecture, there will be an opportunity for questions and discussion.

Winners of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics

The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics is awarded to John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis. They are honored for their groundbreaking work on superconducting quantum circuits and quantum particles, which is considered a milestone on the path to superconducting quantum computers.

Date & Location

Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Time: 6:00–7:15 p.m.
Location: Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, Building Z IV, Room 0.01, Theodor-Körner-Allee 8, 02763 Zittau

Registration & Participation

Registration is requested to help us plan better.
However, last-minute attendees are expressly welcome and may participate even without prior registration.