One hundred years ago, the concept of quantum mechanics was formally introduced to scientific literature. Although many scientists such as Max Plank, Albert Einstein, and Niels Bohr provided invaluable contributions towards quantum ideas, Werner Heisenberg’s paper “On quantum-theoretical reinterpretation of kinematic and mechanical relationships” in 1925 marked the first comprehensive formulation of the theory. Later in the same year, “Zur Quantenmechanik” by Max Born and Pascual Jordan marked the first use of the term ‘quantum mechanics’.

Quantum mechanics allows us to understand our universe at its most fundamental level, exploring the architecture of everyday life on an atomic and subatomic scale. Quantum mechanics is widely regarded as a highly complex and notoriously challenging field of study to master. Nobel Laureate physicist, Richard Feynman, is famously quoted to have said ‘If you think you understand quantum mechanics, then you don’t’.

Despite this sentiment, the impact of quantum mechanics on our lives could not be easier to see. Over the past one hundred years, quantum principles have influenced not just a wealth of research, but an abundance of transformative, real- world applications. The very existence of countless modern technologies, such as MRI scanners, GPS devices, LED lights, and modern computer systems, all rely on quantum mechanics.

In order to aptly celebrate the centenary of this turning point in modern science, the United Nations have proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum (IYQ).

IYQ 2025: celebrating quantum mechanics

The International year of Quantum Science 2025 (IYQ 2025), led by UNESCO, endeavours to not just celebrate the past one hundred years of quantum mechanics but to ensure its research and vital applications are integrated into sustainable development strategies and critically, are accessible to all.

IYQ 2025 is part of a wider global scientific initiative. IYQ 2025 represents one targeted theme within the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (IDSSD), which will run from 2024 to 2033.

Building on the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, IDSSD seeks to overcome global environmental challenges by way of encouraging scientific engagement and cooperation. An element of this wider agenda, IYQ 2025 looks towards quantum mechanics, acknowledging its immense potential for addressing worldwide issues.

“Quantum science is not just about pushing the frontiers of knowledge—it is about calling a Global Quantum Agenda for shaping a future where technology serves all of humanity. The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology is a call to ensure that these advancements bridge divides, rather than create new ones.” – Dr. Linda Brito, Assistant Director-General for Natural Science at UNESCO

Shared values

IYQ 2025’s aims are rooted in the pursuit of the equity and accessibility of quantum knowledge. These are principles which lie at the heart of MDPI’s mission to foster high-quality, Open Access, scientific exchange. Open Access removes key institutional, economic and societal barriers which may prevent individuals from accessing important research.

As scientists began to publish quantum research, the nature of the early 20^th century publishing landscape ensured that this knowledge was restricted from the masses. Their work was published in journals, available only through elite universities, research institutions, or libraries. Moreover, the dissemination of this research was additionally hindered by its reliance on physical, print manufacturing methods.

A century later, academic publishing is almost unrecognisable. The advent of the Internet has facilitated wider and faster access to knowledge. Moreover, Open Access now rivals subscription based models and is supported through global policies and mandates.

We can largely attribute modern technologies, such as computing, digital storage, telecommunications, and the internet to the incredible growth of Open Access publishing.

From semiconductors that power computers, to the lasers within fibre-optic networks, quantum science is the foundation of the digital infrastructure that makes universal access to knowledge possible.

Given that quantum mechanics has ushered in the technological advancements necessary for Open Access to thrive, it is only fitting that quantum knowledge itself remains open to all.

Benefits of the Open Access model

Open Access drives progress by making knowledge freely available to all. The Open Access publishing model has key advantages over traditional subscription-based publishing. These include:

• Often, research is made Open Access by Creative Commons (CC) licenses. CC licenses provide clarity around copyright and licensing for how the work can be used.
• Research published under the Open Access model receives more citations due to the work being available to a wider audience. Importantly, these citations come from a diverse range of disciplines, institutions and locations.
• 85% of the world live in low-to-middle-income countries. Open Access ensures that vital information and cutting-edge insights reach everyone.
• Open Access enables people from outside of academia, such as health workers, lawyers, and teachers, to freely access research.
• Open Access encourages interdisciplinary research by allowing researchers to focus on common aims rather than be restricted to their fields.
• Government funders and higher education institutions mandate Open Access publication. Therefore, satisfying their requirements mean your research can receive the backing it needs.

If you want to learn more about these benefits, read our blog article ‘6 Benefits of Open Access’. Alternatively, learn everything you need to know about Open Access here.

MDPI’s platform for quantum knowledge

As the leading Open Access publisher, MDPI is committed to ensuring the latest advances in quantum mechanics are freely accessible to the global research community.

Quantum mechanics research spans across a range of different disciplines and areas. Through MDPI’s diverse portfolio of journals, academics across the world are able to contribute to the open dissemination of quantum research by submitting to a journal tailored to the nature of their work. MDPI strives to be inclusive in its selection of journals by creating avenues for researchers that ensure high relevance, visibility, and impact.

MDPI journals related with the field of quantum mechanics include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Quantum Reports
• Condensed Matter
• Physics
• Atoms
• Nanomaterials
• Universe

You can find a full list of journal recommendations here.

MDPI quantum research highlights

MDPI is proud to publish quantum research which is freely available to anybody, anywhere. The incredible contributions from authors across the world allows MDPI to champion the dissemination of quantum knowledge.

Below we have summarised a small selection of MDPI articles which demonstrate the excellent research published in our journals related to quantum mechanics. Taken from different journals, these papers highlight the relevance of quantum principles across various fields.

In celebration of IYQ 2025, you can find an extended collection of our research highlights here.

Developing carbon nanotube devices

“Carbon Nanotube Devices for Quantum Technology”.

By Andrey Baydin, Fuyang Tay, Jichao Fan, Manukumara Manjappa, Weilu Gao, and Junichiro Kono. Published in Materials.

This Editor’s Choice review looks towards recent progress in the development of carbon nanotube-based devices for quantum technology.

Carbon nanotubes hold electrical, optical, and mechanical properties that make them effective for developing quantum technologies. These one-dimensional quantum objects offer great potential for advancing quantum applications including computation, sensing, and communications.

The article provides a comprehensive account of carbon nanotubes, including their growth and purification methods, and methodologies for harvesting their quantum properties.

Teaching students about quantum technologies

“Introducing Quantum Technologies at Secondary School Level: Challenges and Potential Impact of an Online Extracurricular Course”.

By Maria Bondani, Maria Luisa Chiofalo, Elisa Ercolessi, Chiara Macchiavello, Massimiliano Malgieri, Marisa Michelini, Oxana Mishina, Pasquale Onorato, Filippo Pallotta, Sara Satanassi, Alberto Stefanel, Claudio Sutrini, Italo Testa, and Giacomo Zuccarini. Published in Physics.

Published as part of the Special Issue ‘Teaching and Learning Quantum Theory and Particle Physics’, this article follows the design and implementation of extracurricular quantum physics courses targeted at secondary school students across Italy. As part of the European initiative QTEdu CSA, the course, which featured eight interactive lectures, was organized online between March and May 2021 and attended by 250 students.

The study found that the courses were effective at developing the students foundational knowledge of quantum physics and their understanding of the key applications of these theories within the modern world. Here, we can see clear benefits from introducing young scholars to quantum mechanics at an earlier age, possibly inspiring the next generation of quantum physicists by making this complex field more accessible and understandable.

Potential of magnetic force microscopy

“A Review of the Current State of Magnetic Force Microscopy to Unravel the Magnetic Properties of Nanomaterials Applied in Biological Systems and Future Directions for Quantum Technologies”

By Robert Winkler, Miguel Ciria, Margaret Ahmad, Harald Plank, and Carlos Marcuello. Published in Nanomaterials.

Similarly to the previously discussed articles, the authors of this review explore the prospects of emerging quantum technologies, outlining the advantages and limitations of magnetic force microscopy (MFM), a tool which helps researchers characterize magnetic structures within biological systems.

The study presents examples where MFM can effectively assess the magnetic performance of nanomaterials involved in biological systems, including magnetotactic bacteria, cryptochrome flavoproteins, and magnetic nanoparticles.

This research affirms the incredible value of quantum principles when applied to modern technology.

How is MDPI celebrating IYQ2025?

To mark 100 Years of quantum research, MDPI is hosting a series of events and initiatives to celebrate this scientific milestone.

Conferences

Conferences play a crucial role in connecting both tenured and early career researchers to wider academic communities, inciting fruitful discussion of shared scientific knowledge and research interests.

In line with IYQ 2025, MDPI is proud to have facilitated the 2^nd Physical & Mathematical Sciences Summit – Quantum Artificial Intelligence. Taking place from the 22^nd to the 24^th of August, in Haikou, China, the conference built on the successes on the first MDPI Summit on Physical and Mathematical Sciences which took place back in 2024.

The conference discussed the integration of quantum computing within machine learning algorithms through a range of keynote speeches and oral presentations.

Visit the conferences page to learn more.

Special Issues and Topics

Join us in commemorating a century of discovery by submitting your manuscripts to our curated Special Issues and Topics.

A range of MDPI journals are currently offering academics the opportunity to publish their work in Special Issues in celebration of quantum research. Publishing research within a Special Issue presents authors with great opportunities for increased visibility and networking.

Similarly, quantum research can also be submitted into a selection of MDPI Topics. Topics provide an exciting outlet for interdisciplinary collaboration, aligning with IYQ 2025’s commitment to progressing quantum research across all fields.

A full list of Special Issues and topics, alongside their respective deadline dates, can be found on our dedicated landing page.

Join the celebrations

As the leading Open Access publisher, MDPI remains committed to championing the accessibility and progression of quantum knowledge.

Through its diverse range of journals, events, and initiatives, MDPI will continue to amplify quantum research and strengthen connections across the global scientific community.

Visit our dedicated landing page for all the essential information about our celebrations of IYQ 2025. Here, you can find all the details covered in this article and upcoming information regarding forthcoming webinars and workshops.