Vision and scientific background 

Quantum science and technology aim to achieve complete control over fundamental properties of matter, such as entanglement or quantum coherence, to explore new phenomena, or to realize novel devices. A new era in quantum science was stimulated by information theory ideas that show that quantum mechanical machines can perform specific information processing tasks exponentially faster than classical computers. The techniques being developed for quantum computing can also be used to realize quantum sensors with superior sensitivity and spatial resolution. One quantum system particularly well-suited for metrology is diamond's nitrogen-vacancy (NV) color center. In particular, the atomic-sized NV-center in diamond allows magnetic sensing to be performed on unprecedented length scales and sensitivities. Our scientific vision is to introduce and establish quantum sensors as a novel tool in chemistry, life sciences, and physics.  We envision applying this pioneering method in various fields such as catalysis, new materials, biotechnology, and single-cell biology, ranging from basic research to commercialization of innovations.