Prof. Dr. Christof Wunderlich is changing his role at the startup eleQtron and stepping down from operational management.
Quantum computing made in Germany – that’s what eleQtron stands for. Founded out of the University of Siegen, eleQtron develops and operates quantum computers together with partners such as Forschungszentrum Jülich and the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Professor Dr. Christof Wunderlich is the founder of Germany’s first quantum computing startup and conducts research in the field of quantum optics at the University of Siegen. On June 30, 2025, Prof. Wunderlich will step down from the executive management team of eleQtron but will remain involved as a shareholder.
Prof. Dr. Christof Wunderlich: „As a scientist, it’s an extraordinary experience to witness how years of fundamental research have led to the creation of Germany’s first quantum computing startup. Now is the right time to pass the baton. I am therefore stepping back from operational management and will fully return to my research at the University of Siegen. As a founder and shareholder, I will remain closely connected to eleQtron and sincerely thank all employees, partners, and companions for their dedication and the remarkable achievements we have shared! I wish the new management continued success and am convinced that eleQtron is on an excellent path – ready for sustainable growth, further success, and groundbreaking developments. I look forward to contributing to the next chapters as well!”
Dr. Michael Johanning and Jan Leisse, both managing directors at eleQtron, add: „Prof. Christof Wunderlich is the scientific father of our technology platform – without his foundational research, the MAGIC technology would not exist in its current form. We are deeply grateful for his vision, relentless energy, and our excellent collaboration. Our connection with Prof. Wunderlich and the University of Siegen remains strong and based on mutual trust – we look forward to many more joint projects and continued exchange.”
Dr. Michael Johanning, CTO (Chief Technology Officer), worked under Prof. Wunderlich’s chair and is a co-founder of eleQtron. Dr. Johanning will continue to lead technology development with determination. eleQtron is now setting a stronger course toward engineering, product development, and industrial scaling – a logical next step following its scientific pioneering phase.
About eleQtron
eleQtron is Germany’s first quantum computer manufacturer. Founded in 2020 in Siegen, the company develops scalable ion trap quantum processors based on its proprietary MAGIC© technology, which replaces complex laser systems with radio-frequency control – a breakthrough enabling precise, stable, and scalable quantum computing systems. The company’s foundation was supported by investors such as the Siegerlandfonds and Earlybird Venture Capital.
About the University of Siegen
The University of Siegen is an interdisciplinary research university, deeply rooted in the South Westphalia region and widely networked nationally and internationally. Through its research and teaching, it aims to contribute to a future that is people-centered and shaped by social responsibility. This is reflected in its guiding principle: Shaping the future in a human-centered way.