Deadline: 08-Jun-2026
Falling Walls Lab Berlin – Adlershof invites students and early-career professionals to present innovative ideas that can impact science and society. Participants have three minutes to showcase their research or innovation to a distinguished jury, demonstrating which “wall” they aim to break. Applications are due by 8 June 2026.
Programme Overview
Falling Walls Lab is an international pitch competition designed to identify and promote groundbreaking ideas across academic, professional, and technological fields. It encourages participants to present innovative concepts that foster interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific progress, and societal impact.
Key Features
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Three-Minute Presentation: Each participant presents their idea concisely to a jury.
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Global Dialogue: The programme fosters exchange between innovators from diverse disciplines.
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Interdisciplinary Impact: Participants showcase ideas that contribute to science, technology, and society.
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One-Time Participation: Applicants can only participate once in a Falling Walls Lab event.
Eligibility Criteria
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Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
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Must be a student or early-career professional from any discipline.
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Must meet one of the following academic requirements:
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Enrolled at a university as a student.
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Bachelor’s degree completed within the last 10 years.
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Master’s degree completed within the last 7 years.
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PhD completed within the last 5 years.
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Medical Degrees:
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MD without dissertation = Master’s equivalent.
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Dr. med. with dissertation = PhD equivalent.
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Global Recognition: Academic degrees are assessed for global equivalence.
Application Guidelines
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Applications must be submitted in English.
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Apply to the Falling Walls Lab closest to you; travel expenses are not covered.
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Individual applications only; group applications or multiple submissions are not allowed.
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International travel and accommodation expenses are generally not provided, unless specified.
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Participation does not require ticket purchase for international Falling Walls Labs.
Important Dates
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Application Deadline: 8 June 2026.
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Selected participants will present at Falling Walls Lab Berlin – Adlershof in a three-minute pitch format.
Tips for Applicants
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Clearly define which “wall” your idea aims to break—scientific, societal, or technological.
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Focus on impact, originality, and feasibility of your concept.
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Ensure your presentation is concise and engaging, as you only have three minutes.
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Highlight interdisciplinary relevance and potential real-world applications.
FAQ – Falling Walls Lab Berlin
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Who can participate? Students or early-career professionals at least 18 years old with formal academic qualifications.
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Can I submit more than one idea? No, only one application per person is allowed.
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Are group applications accepted? No, individual applications only.
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Are travel and accommodation covered? Only if explicitly stated by local organisers; otherwise, not included.
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Is prior participation allowed? No, this opportunity is once-in-a-lifetime.
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What disciplines are eligible? All academic and professional disciplines.
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How long is the presentation? Three minutes to present your idea to the jury.
Conclusion
Falling Walls Lab Berlin – Adlershof provides a unique platform to showcase innovative ideas with societal and scientific impact. By participating, early-career professionals and students gain visibility, interdisciplinary networking, and the chance to demonstrate how their innovation can “break walls” and contribute to global progress.
For more information, visit Falling Walls Foundation.