Falling Walls Foundation
FREE SCIENCE
FOR HUMANITY
Falling Walls Science Summit · Berlin · 6–9 November 2026
Where the world’s brightest minds meet
The Falling Walls Science Summit is the international, interdisciplinary and intersectoral forum for global science leaders. In 2026, it stands under the motto free science for humanity. From 6 to 9 November, 2000+ science and innovation leaders, research ministers and over 100 international university presidents gather for pressing global debates.
THIS YEAR'S PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
The Falling Walls Science Summit 2026 addresses pressing global issues, among them:
- EU research and innovation policies: what are the priorities for Brussels?
- Open exchange of ideas, research security and the threat of global decoupling
- Navigating growing strategic restrictions in science and technology
- Academic openness: how research funding schemes should be adapted
- Redefining transatlantic science relations: Canada, Mexico, USA
In 80+ sessions and panels, with topics including:
- Space, telescopes and satellites
- AI and robotics
- Climate and biodiversity
- Science diplomacy
- Medical research of the future
- European innovation and transfer policies
- Defence and security
- Future of transatlantic cooperation in science
- Hightech Agenda
- Global research networks with Africa
- Academic freedom
Science Breakthroughs of the Year 2026
Across the categories Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Engineering & Technology, Social Sciences & Humanities, Art & Science and the Women’s Impact Award, distinguished international juries have selected our Science Breakthroughs of the Year 2026. Each winning Breakthrough achieves something that has never been done before, opening up new possibilities in its respective field and advancing society. We look forward to welcoming our laureates to the Falling Walls Stage in November.
THIS YEAR’S HIGHLIGHTED SPEAKERS
🇨🇦 CANADA: PARTNER COUNTRY 2026
Canada is the partner country of the 18th Falling Walls Science Summit. A high-level delegation led by senior Canadian officials will come to Berlin to deepen economic and research relations with German and European partners, bringing together university presidents, leaders of research funding agencies and senior representatives from across Canada's science, research and innovation ecosystem.
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SCIENCE SUMMIT 2026