Stephanie Wehner: A Quantum Physics Pioneer Receives the Körber Prize

In recent years, the scientific community has become increasingly open to celebrating the achievements of women in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). One remarkable figure who stands out in this context is Stephanie Wehner. A distinguished quantum physicist, she was awarded the prestigious Körber Prize for European Science on September 19, 2025. This recognition not only honors her groundbreaking work but also sends an important signal about the visibility and acknowledgment of women in the natural sciences.

Early Passion for Computers
Born in Würzburg in 1977, Wehner developed a fascination with computers at an early age. Before embarking on her academic career, she worked as a so-called white-hat hacker—testing computer systems for vulnerabilities to help strengthen their security. She has lived and conducted research in the Netherlands for many years.

Today, she serves as Director of the European Quantum Internet Alliance and is a professor at the QuTech Institute at Delft University of Technology. She plays a leading role in building a European quantum internet. The Körber Prize, which comes with a €1 million award, will allow her to further explore new applications for quantum networks.

Ultra-Fast Computing and Secure Data Transmission
Wehner’s research pushes the boundaries of our understanding of quantum mechanics and its practical applications. According to the Körber Foundation, her team developed the world’s first operating system for quantum computer networks - QNodeOS. This innovation will make it possible to transmit data securely against eavesdropping while enabling users to solve complex problems together at record speed. “This allows us to do things that are impossible on the regular internet,” Wehner explained.

Talent and Innovation Know No Gender
Stephanie Wehner’s selection as this year’s laureate marks an important step toward greater equality in science. The Körber Prize honors scientists who have made outstanding contributions and pioneered innovative approaches. In awarding it to Wehner, the committee not only recognizes her personal achievements but also highlights the broader role of women in research—an area where many still face systemic challenges. The message is clear: talent and innovation are not defined by gender, and science thrives on diversity of perspective. Notably, the 2024 Körber Prize was also awarded to a woman: neuroscientist Erin Schuman.

A Powerful Role Model
Awards like these can help inspire young girls to pursue STEM disciplines. When women in leading positions are visible and celebrated, they create strong role models. Initiatives such as Girls in Science and similar programs are dedicated to sparking interest in science and technology among schoolgirls at an early stage. For the same reason, the Fondsfrauen present their annual awards—now in their seventh year. Such honors demonstrate that women can succeed in a wide range of fields and make a lasting contribution to society.

Quantum Computing Reaches the Capital Markets
For those who, inspired by Stephanie Wehner’s work, want to explore the still-emerging field of quantum computing from an investment perspective: in 2025, two quantum computing ETFs were launched, giving investors the opportunity to participate financially in companies shaping the quantum ecosystem.

Fondsname	ISIN	Auflagedatum	TER
VanEck Quantum Computing UCITS ETF	IE0007Y8Y157	21. Mai 2025	0,55%
WisdomTree Quantum Computing UCITS ETF	IE000W8WMSL2	27. August 2025	0,50%

Fotos: Marcus Gloger / Körber-Stiftung

 

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