Early-career researchers in Berlin are invited to apply for the “Forum Junge Spitzenforschung 2026” with application-oriented research ideas on “Resilient Energy Infrastructure”. The application deadline is November 1, 2026.

The competition is looking for innovative approaches that can help make energy systems more robust, sustainable, and resilient in times of crisis. Possible topics include smart grids, reliable backup solutions for critical infrastructure such as hospitals, new ways of producing electricity and fuels from renewable sources, and innovative solutions for sustainable energy storage.

Doctoral researchers, postdocs, research assistants, and junior professors in Berlin are eligible to apply. Research projects should demonstrate potential for practical applications and transfer into industry.

A jury will select six finalists. Following pitch training on November 19, the finalists will present their research to a jury of industry experts on November 24. The Stiftung Industrieforschung will award a total of €42,000 in prize money: €12,000 for first place, €10,000 for second place, and €8,000 for third place. Finalists ranked fourth to sixth will each receive €4,000. The prize money can be freely used to support the recipients’ own research.

Application deadline: November 1, 2026

Further information, conditions of participation, and application:
Forum Junge Spitzenforschung 2026