The Falling Walls Lab 2026 is a global pitch competition for emerging researchers, innovators, and professionals. Local labs take place in over 60 countries from May through October 2026, with winners advancing to the Falling Walls Lab Finale in November 2026 in Berlin, Germany.
Each participant presents their research breakthrough or innovative idea in exactly three minutes, answering the question: “Which wall are you breaking down?” The format makes cutting-edge research accessible and engaging, attracting a diverse audience of scientists, entrepreneurs, media, and the public.
The Falling Walls Lab actively promotes diversity and inclusion, welcoming participants from all backgrounds and disciplines. Local labs are organized by universities, research institutions, and science organizations across Europe and worldwide, providing accessible entry points for early-career researchers, including women in STEM.
For the STREAM IT community, the Falling Walls Lab demonstrates how science communication and competition formats can showcase diverse talent and inspire the next generation of researchers.
More information and applications: https://falling-walls.com/lab
Language of the event: English
Name of the sister project/event holder: Falling Walls Foundation
Date of the event: Labs: May–October 2026 (Finals: November 2026, Berlin)