VITI will conduct joint research on a new class of materials so-called topological insulators. A strategic goal of VITI is to produce high quality layers of Bi- and Hg-based topological insulators. Based on the broad material basis and the versatile characterization methods the transport properties of 3D topological insulators will be investigated in detail with the aim to investigate fundamental quantum effects and to identify possible application fields. The latter includes beside nano- and spin-electronic applications also novel approaches in the field of quantum information technology.