Global Call 2026 for Science Breakthroughs in Engineering & Technology

The Falling Walls Global Call for Science Breakthroughs 2026 invites internationally recognised leaders in Engineering & Technology to showcase transformative research with global impact. Selected participants will present at the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin, with one winner named Science Breakthrough of the Year on 9 November 2026. Projects are evaluated based on breakthrough potential, innovation, societal relevance, and academic excellence.

Engineering & Technology Category

The Falling Walls Global Call for Science Breakthroughs 2026 seeks outstanding engineers, scientists, and research leaders whose work represents a paradigm shift in Engineering & Technology.

This prestigious international platform highlights technological breakthroughs that address global challenges and transform industries, infrastructure, and society.

The selected Science Breakthrough of the Year in Engineering & Technology will present on 9 November 2026 at the main stage of the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin.

What Is the Engineering & Technology Category?

This category recognises:

• Visionary engineers and technologists

• Internationally recognised academics

• Research teams advancing scientific frontiers

• Innovators translating theory into practical, real-world solutions

The focus is on applied science and mathematics that directly impact everyday life.

Priority Focus Areas

While open to all engineering disciplines, strong emphasis is placed on:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Information Technology (IT)

• Mechanical Engineering

• Robotics and Automation

• Smart Manufacturing

• Sustainable Energy Solutions

• Digital Transformation

• Mobility and Infrastructure Innovation

• Space and Advanced Technologies

Projects should demonstrate global applicability and scalability.

What Type of Research Is Sought?

The initiative seeks research that:

• Represents a paradigm shift in its field

• Demonstrates recent groundbreaking achievements

• Bridges theory and real-world implementation

• Addresses major global challenges

• Aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Makes complex scientific ideas accessible to broader audiences

Successful projects typically combine scientific depth with practical implementation.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Nominees

The call targets:

• Internationally recognised academics

• Established research leaders

• Engineering and technology innovators

• Universities and research teams

• Leaders in applied science and mathematics

Who Can Nominate?

Nominations may be submitted by:

• Universities

• Research organisations

• Companies

• Public and private research centres

• Academies

• Research funders

• Foundations

• Individual nominators

Self-nominations are also permitted.

Submission Requirements

• Applications must be completed in English.

• The nominee’s work must reflect established academic excellence and global relevance.

Selection Criteria

Projects are evaluated based on four core criteria:

1. Breakthrough Potential

• Does the research represent a paradigm shift?

• Does it demonstrate significant, recent achievements?

• Can it transform its field or industry?

2. Level of Innovation

• Is the work original and forward-thinking?

• Does it push technological or scientific boundaries?

3. Societal Relevance

• Does the research address global challenges?

• Does it align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

• Does it create measurable positive societal impact?

4. Academic Excellence

• Is the research of outstanding academic quality?

• Does it have long-term influence on the research landscape?

• Is it supported by strong evidence and peer recognition?

Projects should also effectively communicate complex science in accessible ways.

What Do Selected Participants Receive?

Shortlisted Participants

• Presentation to a distinguished international jury

• Global visibility and recognition

• Membership in the Falling Walls network

• Access to interdisciplinary collaboration

Science Breakthrough of the Year

The selected winner will:

• Present on the main stage at the Falling Walls Science Summit (9 November 2026)

• Participate in the full four-day Summit (6–9 November 2026)

• Engage with leaders in science, politics, business, and media

• Gain international recognition as a global innovation leader

Why This Opportunity Matters

The Falling Walls Science Summit is one of the world’s leading interdisciplinary science events.

Being selected:

• Elevates international academic visibility

• Strengthens global research networks

• Connects innovators with decision-makers

• Accelerates translation of research into real-world impact

• Positions winners as global thought leaders

This platform supports research that not only advances knowledge but transforms society.

How to Apply or Nominate

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure the nominee:

• Is internationally recognised

• Has demonstrated groundbreaking research achievements

• Meets the Engineering & Technology category scope

Step 2: Prepare Submission Materials

Include:

• Clear description of the breakthrough

• Evidence of paradigm-shifting impact

• Societal relevance and SDG alignment

• Demonstration of innovation

• Academic credentials and recognition

Step 3: Submit in English

All submissions must be completed in English through the official Falling Walls nomination process.

Step 4: Await Jury Evaluation

Submissions undergo competitive review based on the four selection criteria.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incremental research instead of transformative breakthroughs

• Failing to clearly articulate societal impact

• Overloading technical detail without explaining real-world relevance

• Not demonstrating international recognition or established leadership

• Weak alignment with global challenges or SDGs

Strong applications clearly connect scientific excellence to tangible global outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can early-career researchers apply?

The call primarily targets internationally recognised and established leaders. Early-career researchers may be more competitive in other Falling Walls categories.

2. Are team projects eligible?

Yes. Research teams and collaborative projects can be nominated.

3. Is self-nomination allowed?

Yes. Applicants may submit their own projects directly.

4. Where does the final presentation take place?

At the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin on 9 November 2026.

5. What language must applications be submitted in?

All submissions must be completed in English.

6. What defines a “breakthrough”?

A breakthrough represents a paradigm shift with significant, recent achievements that transform a field and generate measurable societal impact.

7. Is alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals required?

While not mandatory, strong alignment with SDGs significantly strengthens societal relevance.

Conclusion

The Falling Walls Global Call for Science Breakthroughs 2026 in Engineering & Technology recognises transformative research that reshapes industries and addresses urgent global challenges.

For internationally recognised leaders advancing sustainable energy, AI, robotics, digital transformation, and beyond, this call offers a prestigious global platform to showcase innovation and societal impact.

Researchers who combine academic excellence with real-world application and visionary leadership are strongly encouraged to apply or nominate outstanding candidates.