Deadline: 22-Aug-2026
The Falling Walls Lab Uppsala is inviting students and early-career professionals to present breakthrough ideas that positively impact science and society through a three-minute pitch competition.
The programme supports innovative research, interdisciplinary solutions, scientific breakthroughs, and social impact ideas across all academic disciplines. Applications are open to eligible participants worldwide who meet the academic and age requirements.
Programme Overview
Falling Walls Lab is an international pitch competition designed to showcase innovative ideas, research, and solutions that can contribute to science, society, and global progress.
The competition encourages:
- Scientific innovation
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Social impact solutions
- Academic entrepreneurship
- Early-career talent development
- Public communication of research ideas
Participants must present their idea in a concise three-minute pitch.
Competition Focus Areas
The programme welcomes ideas related to:
- Scientific breakthroughs
- Research innovation
- Technology and engineering
- Health and medicine
- Sustainability
- Social impact initiatives
- Education and public policy
- Interdisciplinary problem-solving
Applications are accepted from all academic disciplines.
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Apply individually
- Submit applications in English
Eligible Academic Backgrounds
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Currently enrolled at a university
- Bachelor’s degree obtained no more than 10 years ago
- Master’s degree obtained no more than 7 years ago
- PhD obtained no more than 5 years ago
Degree Equivalency
- An MD degree without a doctoral dissertation is considered equivalent to a Master’s degree
- A Dr. med. degree with a doctoral dissertation is considered equivalent to a PhD
The organisers recognize differences in international academic degree systems.
Important Participation Rules
Applicants should note the following:
- Previous Falling Walls Lab participants are not eligible
- Participation is allowed only once in a lifetime
- Group applications are not accepted
- Multiple applications are not permitted
- Applicants must apply to the Falling Walls Lab closest to them
Travel and Accommodation
Falling Walls Lab is a competition and not a grant programme.
Participants should note:
- Travel costs to local Labs are generally not covered
- Accommodation and international travel expenses are not funded unless specifically stated by local organisers
How the Competition Works
Three-Minute Pitch Format
Participants present:
- One breakthrough idea
- One research innovation
- One impactful solution
The pitch must be delivered clearly and effectively within three minutes.
Evaluation Focus
Ideas are generally assessed based on:
- Innovation and originality
- Scientific or social relevance
- Clarity of presentation
- Potential impact
- Interdisciplinary value
How to Apply
Step 1: Prepare Your Idea
Applicants should identify:
- A breakthrough concept
- A research innovation
- A social or scientific challenge being addressed
Step 2: Develop a Three-Minute Pitch
The presentation should clearly explain:
- The problem
- The proposed solution
- The expected impact
Step 3: Submit an Individual Application
Applications must:
- Be submitted in English
- Be completed individually
- Follow the eligibility requirements
Step 4: Apply to the Closest Lab
Applicants are required to apply to the Falling Walls Lab nearest to their location.
Why This Competition Matters
Falling Walls Lab helps:
- Promote young scientific talent
- Encourage public engagement with research
- Support interdisciplinary innovation
- Develop communication and presentation skills
- Build international academic and professional networks
The programme also creates visibility for emerging researchers and innovators.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcomplicated Presentations
Ideas should be explained clearly and concisely within the three-minute limit.
Ignoring Eligibility Rules
Applicants must carefully check academic qualification timelines and participation rules.
Submitting Group Applications
Only individual applications are accepted.
Applying to Multiple Labs
Participants may submit only one application to the Lab closest to them.
FAQ
What is Falling Walls Lab?
It is an international pitch competition where participants present breakthrough ideas in three minutes.
Who can apply?
Students and early-career professionals from all disciplines who meet the academic eligibility requirements can apply.
Is this a grant programme?
No. Falling Walls Lab is a pitch competition, not a funding programme.
Can teams apply?
No. Only individual applications are allowed.
Are travel expenses covered?
Usually no. Travel and accommodation costs are generally not covered unless specified by local organisers.
What language must applications be submitted in?
All applications and presentations must be in English.
Conclusion
The Falling Walls Lab Uppsala 2027 competition offers an important platform for students and early-career innovators to present breakthrough ideas that contribute to science and society. By supporting interdisciplinary thinking, innovation, and public communication, the programme helps emerging talent gain visibility and connect with global academic and innovation networks.
For more information, visit Falling Walls Foundation.