About the event
Which wall will your research break? If you are an early career researcher working on an idea you think can transform our knowledge, pitch your innovative research in just three minutes, showcasing a breakthrough that positively impacts science and society.
The Falling Walls Lab competition provides a platform to connect emerging talent across disciplines, foster collaboration, and highlight impactful research and ideas from across LSE and beyond.
Who can apply?
The call is open to all participants from London-based universities and Russell Group universities outside of the London area.
Applicants must fulfil at least one of the following formal requirements:
-
Have received a PhD no more than 5 years ago
-
Have received a Master’s degree no more than 7 years ago
-
Have received a Bachelor’s degree no more than 10 years ago
-
Currently be enrolled at university as a student
An MD (medical degree excluding a doctoral dissertation) is deemed equivalent to a Master’s degree. A Dr. med. (medical degree including a doctoral dissertation) is deemed equivalent to a PhD. The global diversity of academic degrees is acknowledged.
Why participate?
Participants will have the opportunity to:
-
Present their breakthrough idea to an expert, multidisciplinary jury panel
-
Connect with peers from across the London and broader UK research and innovation community
-
Gain international visibility for their innovative proposals
-
Be among the 100 Falling Walls Lab winners from across the world who qualify for a trip to the Global Finale in Berlin, Germany and win a ticket to the Falling Walls Science Summit (6-9 November 2026)
-
Represent their host institution and region in Berlin, compete to become the Breakthrough Winner in the Emerging Talents category and participate in an exclusive programme exploring Germany’s research landscape
-
Receive a cash prize if they qualify as a Top 3 of the 100 finalists and present their idea on the grand stage of the Falling Walls Breakthrough of the Year
Application process
-
Check the eligibility criteria before applying
-
Submit your application here by 3 May 2026
-
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to present their ideas at the Falling Walls Lab London on 9 June 2026
Event details
Date and time: Tuesday 9 June 2026, 10am – 2pm (in-person)
Location: Marshall Building, London School of Economics
A map of campus is available here.
This event is organised by the London School of Economics and Political Science in partnership with the Department of Engineering based at the University of Cambridge. Our sponsor is the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
Contact
If you have a question that is not covered in the FAQ section below or on the Falling Walls Lab website, please reach out to the organisers: Andreea Gavrila and Shalen Fu.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I know if my idea is suitable?
You can see a list of international finalists here and look at successful pitches here. An overview of 2025 finalists is available in the Falling Walls Lab report. We strongly encourage applicants from across disciplines to apply.
Can I apply if I am from an institution that is not based in London or part of the Russell Group?
Not for this 2026 competition.
Can I apply if I was previously part of a Lab in a different country or have been unsuccessful in the past?
The Lab is meant as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and former participants are not eligible to re-apply.
Are there any costs?
Shortlisted candidates should cover their own travel and accommodation costs to the pitch competition held at LSE. All costs for the winner to travel to Berlin and take part in the Global Finale will be covered.
Other than the participants, is the event open to other attendees?
Yes, the event is open to general audience members who are interested in hearing the pitches or wish to support the presenters. A registration link will be available for sign-up in due course.