Deadline: 26-May-2026
Falling Walls Lab Sendai provides students and early-career professionals an exceptional platform to pitch innovative ideas that can transform science and society. Participants present their research in three minutes, focusing on breakthroughs in knowledge, technology, and societal impact. The event is open to applicants from all disciplines who meet the academic eligibility criteria.
What is Falling Walls Lab Sendai?
Falling Walls Lab is a global innovation and research competition that encourages participants to break existing walls in science, technology, and society. The competition emphasizes concise and impactful communication, requiring participants to present their ideas in three minutes. The event fosters networking, professional development, and visibility for emerging innovators.
Who Can Apply?
Falling Walls Lab Sendai is open to students and early-career professionals who are 18 years or older at the time of application. Applicants must fulfill at least one of the following academic requirements:
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Currently enrolled at a university
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Received a Bachelor’s degree no more than 10 years ago
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Received a Master’s degree no more than 7 years ago
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Received a PhD no more than 5 years ago
Medical degrees are recognized with equivalency: MD = Master’s degree, Dr. med. = PhD. The competition recognizes the global diversity of academic degrees.
Key Rules and Guidelines
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Applications must be submitted individually in English.
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Group submissions or multiple applications are not permitted.
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Falling Walls Lab is a pitch competition, not a grant agency.
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Travel and accommodation costs are not covered unless specified by local organizers.
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Past participants are not eligible to apply.
Event Details
The 2026 Falling Walls Lab Sendai will take place at TOKYO ELECTRON House of Creativity, Tohoku University, Sendai. Participants will present their pitches to a panel of experts, gaining exposure and networking opportunities in the science and innovation community.
Why It Matters
Falling Walls Lab Sendai offers participants the chance to:
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Showcase innovative research and ideas to a global audience
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Develop presentation and communication skills
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Connect with experts, researchers, and potential collaborators
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Gain recognition and visibility for impactful breakthroughs
How to Apply
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Confirm you meet the age and academic criteria outlined above.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pitch
Develop a three-minute presentation highlighting your innovative research or breakthrough. Focus on clarity, societal impact, and novelty.
Step 3: Submit Application
Apply individually in English through the official Falling Walls Lab Sendai application portal. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
Step 4: Participate in the Lab
If selected, attend the event at Tohoku University in Sendai and present your pitch to the jury and audience.
Tips for Applicants
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Practice timed presentations to ensure your pitch fits the three-minute limit.
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Highlight the impact and novelty of your research.
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Keep slides or visuals minimal and clear to support your message.
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Focus on how your idea “breaks walls” in science or society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can group applications apply? No, submissions must be individual.
2. Are travel and accommodation expenses covered? Not unless specified by local organizers.
3. Can past participants reapply? No, previous participants are ineligible.
4. What languages are accepted for the application? Applications must be submitted in English.
5. What is the time limit for pitches? Each pitch must be three minutes long.
6. Which degrees are recognized? Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and equivalent medical degrees (MD and Dr. med.).
7. Is Falling Walls Lab a funding program? No, it is a pitch competition, not a grant or funding program.
Conclusion
Falling Walls Lab Sendai 2026 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students and early-career professionals to present groundbreaking ideas, gain recognition, and connect with innovators worldwide. Eligible applicants should prepare a concise, impactful pitch and seize the chance to showcase research that can truly transform science and society.
For more information, visit Falling Walls Foundation.