Deadline: 26-Jun-2026
Falling Walls Lab is coming to Nairobi, Kenya, inviting students and early-career professionals to present breakthrough research or innovations in a three-minute pitch. The programme fosters interdisciplinary thinking, creative solutions, and emerging talent, providing a platform to demonstrate which “wall” your idea aims to break.
About Falling Walls Lab
Falling Walls Lab is an international pitch competition designed to:
-
Encourage innovative and creative thinking
-
Facilitate interdisciplinary exchange across academic disciplines
-
Provide a platform for emerging talents to present breakthrough ideas in a competitive environment
-
Promote ideas with the potential to impact science and society
Participants present their research or innovation in a three-minute pitch, explaining which metaphorical “wall” their idea aims to break.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
-
Age: 18 years or older at the time of submission
-
Academic background: At least one of the following:
-
Currently enrolled at a university
-
Bachelor’s degree obtained within the last 10 years
-
Master’s degree obtained within the last 7 years
-
PhD obtained within the last 5 years
-
-
Medical degrees:
-
MD without doctoral dissertation → equivalent to a Master’s degree
-
Dr. med. with doctoral dissertation → equivalent to a PhD
-
-
Inclusivity: Open to all academic disciplines as students or early-career professionals
Important Notes on Eligibility
-
Participation is limited to once in a lifetime; previous participants cannot reapply
-
Applications are individual only; group submissions are not permitted
-
Applicants must apply to the Lab closest to their location
Application Guidelines
-
Submission language: English only
-
Portal: Applications submitted online via the Falling Walls Lab portal
-
Travel and accommodation: Generally not covered unless explicitly stated by organisers
-
Tickets: No purchase is required to participate in international Labs
-
Application limit: One submission per applicant
Tips for a Strong Pitch
-
Clearly communicate which “wall” your idea addresses
-
Highlight interdisciplinary relevance and societal impact
-
Ensure your pitch is concise, engaging, and within three minutes
-
Prepare to convey novelty and practical relevance to a diverse jury
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Submitting group applications instead of individual submissions
-
Applying if you have already participated in a Falling Walls Lab
-
Ignoring the three-minute time limit for presentations
-
Submitting applications in languages other than English
-
Applying to a Lab far from your location instead of the closest one
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Falling Walls Lab?
It is an international pitch competition for students and early-career professionals to present breakthrough research or innovations in three minutes.
2. Who can apply?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and fulfill one of the academic eligibility criteria (current student, recent Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD graduate).
3. Can I submit a group application?
No. Only individual applications are accepted.
4. Are travel and accommodation costs covered?
Generally, no, unless explicitly stated by the local organiser.
5. Can previous participants apply again?
No. Participation is once in a lifetime.
6. Do I need to pay a ticket fee?
No. There is no ticket purchase required for international Labs.
7. In what language should I submit my application?
All applications must be submitted in English.
Conclusion
Falling Walls Lab Nairobi offers a unique platform for emerging talents to present innovative ideas that can break boundaries in science and society. By fostering interdisciplinary thinking and providing a competitive stage, the programme empowers students and early-career professionals to showcase novel research, creativity, and societal impact.
For more information, visit Falling Walls Foundation.
