Female Science Talents Intensive Track 2027: One-Year Career Programme for Women in Science | Apply by 15 November

Overview

The Female Science Talents Intensive Track 2027 is a one-year career development programme designed for 20 outstanding early-career women and eligible gender-diverse researchers from around the world. Organised by the Falling Walls Foundation, the initiative runs from February 2027 to January 2028 across all academic disciplines. The programme combines online sessions with two mandatory in-person gatherings in Berlin, Germany, with travel costs and accommodation fully covered for both events.

Who can apply

Applications are open to early-career researchers globally from universities or research institutions across all scientific disciplines. Eligible candidates include PhD students in the final stages of their research, postdoctoral researchers who completed their PhD in 2021 or later, and individuals with equivalent qualifications such as relevant medical degrees or advanced professional scientific training. The programme welcomes cis and trans women, as well as genderqueer and non-binary people, with applicants from the Global South especially encouraged to apply. Participants must possess strong English communication skills.

What you get

Selected participants gain access to international networking, mentoring, career talks, and workshops covering topics such as science entrepreneurship, science communication, and leadership. The opportunity includes attending the International Spring Gathering in Berlin for four days in May 2027 and the International Fall Gathering during the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin for six days in November 2027. Participants also join a global research community, gain visibility for their research, and access the wider Falling Walls community networks.

Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate strong scientific achievements, innovative thinking, a commitment to advancing knowledge, and the ability to explain their research clearly in English. Candidates must commit to attending online activities scheduled once or twice a month for approximately 60 minutes each, as well as traveling to Berlin for both annual gatherings. Participants are further expected to contribute actively to peer learning, collaboration, community events, and mentorship, including supporting the 2028 cohort up to six times per year.

How to apply

Candidates must submit their applications through the official online application platform. The application requires completing an online form with short written responses of up to 300 characters each detailing personal background, research, career goals, programme objectives, and community contributions. Applicants must also upload a tabular curriculum vitae and a video introduction in MP4 format of no more than two minutes explaining their background and motivation.

Key dates

Applications are open from 1 October to 15 November 2026. The application deadline is 15 November 2026 at 23:59 Central European Time. The programme itself runs from February 2027 to January 2028, featuring gatherings in May 2027 and November 2027.