The Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL) focuses on basic research into all aspects of the interaction between light and matter, from modern optics to photonics, quantum effects and their applications in the real world. Our research aims to extend the realm of the possible in the science and technology of light.

MPL was founded in 2009 and is one of the more than 84 institutes making up the Max Planck Society (MPS).

At our institute, top scientists are provided with ideal conditions for researching the fundamentals of the physics of light and understanding its hidden complex phenomena: a hotspot of like-minded people. This unique environment of experts in their field enhances individual knowledge and fuels the creative development of novel research approaches.

To support the realisation of research projects, our institute provides excellence at every level – scientific, technical, and administrative. This ranges from the high-end equipment in our research laboratories and the highly skilled support of our technical service units to our state-of-the-art cleanroom facility and the personalised support provided to our scientists by the administrative team. What defines us is our relentless and collaborative passion for research.

Founded in 1743, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) is a strong research university with an international perspective and one of the largest universities in Germany, with approx. 40,000 students.
With five faculties, the university offers classes and research opportunities in a wide range of subjects. At the Master's level in particular, many subjects are taught entirely in English.

FAU is a leading academic institution with internationally recognised, interdisciplinary research in a variety of fields, including: i) new materials and processes, ii) optics and optical technologies, iii) molecular life science and medicine, iv) medical engineering, v) electronics, information, and communication, vi) energy, environment and climate, vii) language, culture, and region, and viii) cohesion, transformation, and innovation in law and economics.

The university receives special federal funding for the following high-profile research initiatives: the Cluster of Excellence "Engineering of Advanced Materials", the Erlangen Graduate School in Advanced Optical Technologies, the "Medical Valley" Leading Edge Cluster in Health Technology, and the International Consortium for Research in the Humanities "Fate, Freedom, and Prognostication". FAU offers outstanding research conditions for graduate students, doctoral candidates, and young researchers. It provides a state-of-the-art scientific infrastructure as well as intensive research mentoring and support. FAU students receive world-class training in an inspiring environment with access to exciting international exchange opportunities and excellent career prospects. The global vision of the university is exemplified by the recently established FAU Busan Campus in South Korea.

FAU benefits from collaborations with other renowned research institutions in Erlangen and Nuremberg, including the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, the newly founded Helmholtz Institute Erlangen-Nürnberg for Renewable Energy, and two Fraunhofer institutes. Further information can be found at http://www.fau.eu/university.

FAU's two main sites, the cities of Erlangen and Nuremberg, are located at the heart of the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region. It is one of Germany's most dynamic economic areas with over 3.5 million inhabitants. As a powerhouse for innovation, the university contributes to identifying and addressing technological, social and cultural challenges.
Both Erlangen with its approx. 100,000 inhabitants and Nuremberg with half a million inhabitants have their own charm and offer ample opportunities for cultural and leisure time activities as well as sports.

Especially in Erlangen, students and young researchers from all over the world as well as employees of globally operating companies create a vibrant, international atmosphere. The lively cultural scene and events of the region, such as the famous Erlangen beer festival ("Bergkirchweih"), the Nuremberg Christmas Market ("Christkindlesmarkt") and FAU's "Schlossgartenfest", attract visitors from near and far. While Nuremberg was the home of important artists such as Albrecht Dürer and the Nuremberg Renaissance, visitors are also attracted to its castle and the old town's half-timbered houses. Every other year, the research institutions in Erlangen, Nuremberg, and Fürth hold the "Long Night of Sciences". Nature enthusiasts will find the Fränkische Schweiz a paradise for climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and water sports.

FAU is firmly rooted in the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region and is an important partner for companies, industry, politics, culture, and society. FAU graduates benefit from the Metropolitan Region's perfect conditions when embarking on their professional or academic careers.

The biggest strengths of the Metropolitan Region are transport and logistics, information and communication, medicine and pharmaceutics, energy, power electronics and environment, new materials, automation technology, and innovative services. Branches of all large banks and insurance companies are located in the region.