Falling Walls Foundation. · Berlin, Germany.
Applications are now open for the Female Science Talents Intensive Track 2027, an international career development programme organised by the Falling Walls Foundation. The programme will select 20 talented women and gender diverse researchers from around the world to participate in a year of professional development, mentorship, scientific exchange and leadership training.
The initiative is designed to help outstanding researchers advance their careers, strengthen their professional networks and explore new opportunities for leadership in science. Participants will engage in workshops, career talks and collaborative learning activities while connecting with established scientists, industry professionals and leaders from different sectors.
The programme runs from February 2027 to January 2028. It combines online activities throughout the year with two in person gatherings in Berlin, Germany. These gatherings include the International Spring Gathering and the International Fall Gathering during the Falling Walls Science Summit 2027. Travel and accommodation costs for both events are covered by the programme.
The Female Science Talents Intensive Track is part of the Female Science Talents initiative of the Falling Walls Foundation. It supports researchers who demonstrate scientific excellence and the potential to contribute to research, innovation and wider society.
The programme offers participants opportunities to strengthen their professional skills, communicate their research to broader audiences and learn from people working across academia, business and other sectors. Through regular online sessions, career discussions, workshops and peer exchange, fellows can explore new approaches to scientific leadership and career development.
Participants are also expected to contribute actively to the programme community. This includes exchanging knowledge with fellow researchers, participating in discussions, sharing expertise and supporting the development of future cohorts through mentorship and community activities.
The programme is scheduled to begin in February 2027 and conclude in January 2028. Online activities take place throughout the year, generally requiring around three to five hours per month. Participants will also travel to Berlin for two gatherings, one in May and another in November 2027.
Selected participants can access the following benefits:
• Participation in a free, one year professional development programme.
• Travel and accommodation support for two gatherings in Berlin, Germany.
• Opportunities to attend workshops on leadership, science communication, entrepreneurship and career development.
• Career talks with experienced researchers and professionals.
• Mentorship and peer learning with scientists from different disciplines.
• Networking opportunities with women leaders in academia, business and politics.
• Connections with the wider Female Science Talents and Falling Walls communities.
• Greater visibility for research and professional achievements through programme communication channels.
• Opportunities to contribute to community activities and mentor future participants.
• Exposure to international scientific networks and potential career pathways.
Important funding note: The programme covers participation and specified travel and accommodation costs for the two Berlin gatherings. It does not advertise a general salary or monthly stipend. Visa application expenses and travel insurance are not covered.
The Intensive Track is open to applicants from all academic disciplines. Its activities focus on several professional development areas.
• Scientific career development: Strengthening research careers and exploring future opportunities in academia and beyond.
• Science communication: Learning to explain research findings, scientific ideas and professional goals to wider audiences.
• Leadership development: Building the confidence and skills needed to take on leadership responsibilities in scientific and professional settings.
• Science entrepreneurship: Exploring ways to translate scientific knowledge and research into practical applications and innovative initiatives.
• Professional networking: Connecting with researchers, established scientists, industry representatives and other professionals.
• Peer learning and mentorship: Sharing knowledge, exchanging experiences and supporting other members of the scientific community.
• Community engagement: Contributing to discussions, organising knowledge sharing activities and supporting future programme participants.
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
• Identify as a woman or as a gender diverse person within the programme’s inclusive eligibility framework.
• Be a PhD student in the final stages of doctoral research, or a postdoctoral researcher who completed a PhD in 2021 or later.
• Applicants with qualifications equivalent to a PhD or postdoctoral experience, including relevant medical degrees or advanced professional scientific training, may also be considered.
• Be affiliated with a university or research institution in any country.
• Demonstrate strong scientific ability, innovative thinking and a commitment to advancing knowledge in their field.
• Have a clear understanding of their research interests and future career goals.
• Demonstrate fluency in English and the ability to communicate research and professional objectives clearly.
• Be willing to participate actively in workshops, online sessions, peer discussions and community activities.
• Be prepared to contribute knowledge and expertise to the programme and support future participants through mentorship.
• Show a collaborative attitude and an interest in engaging with an international network of researchers.
Women from the Global South are particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants should ensure that their qualifications and research experience align with the programme’s stated requirements.
Applicants must complete the online application form and provide the following information and documents:
• Personal introduction: A description of yourself, limited to 300 characters including spaces.
• Research description: A concise explanation of your research, limited to 300 characters including spaces.
• Career goals and vision: An outline of your professional ambitions, limited to 300 characters including spaces.
• Programme relevance: An explanation of how participation would support your career objectives, limited to 300 characters including spaces.
• Contribution to the programme: A brief description of the skills, experience or expertise you could contribute, limited to 300 characters including spaces.
• Curriculum Vitae: A CV in tabular format highlighting the main stages of your career, research experience and achievements.
• Video introduction: An MP4 video of no more than two minutes explaining who you are and why you want to participate.
Applicants should keep their written responses concise and specific. The application should communicate their research strengths, career ambitions and potential contributions to the wider community.
Applications are assessed by an expert panel. The selection process considers the applicant’s scientific achievements, motivation, potential and ability to present their work and goals effectively.
Particular attention is given to scientific excellence, innovative thinking, communication skills and readiness to participate in a collaborative international programme. Applicants should also demonstrate a willingness to share knowledge, engage in peer learning, contribute to community events and mentor future participants.
Interested candidates should follow these steps:
Berlin, Germany.
Falling Walls Foundation.
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