Brest, France – March 4, 2026 – From September 7 to 11, 2026, Brest will become the beating heart of European science as it hosts the third edition of EU TalentOn, a dynamic contest for young researchers aged 21 to 35. Organized by the Technopôle Brest-Iroise as part of the EU-funded Science Comes to Town initiative, this five-day event will bring together over 100 of Europe’s brightest early-career scientists to tackle some of society’s most pressing challenges.
Five Missions, One Goal: Innovate for Impact Participants will compete in teams to develop groundbreaking solutions aligned with the five EU Missions:
- Adaptation to Climate Change
- Cancer Prevention and Care
- Restore Our Ocean and Waters
- Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities
- A Soil Deal for Europe
These missions, central to the European Research Area’s agenda, reflect the continent’s most urgent priorities. EU TalentOn 2026 is not just a competition, it’s a melting pot of innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact.
Who Can Apply?
- Students enrolled in a Master’s programme, Master’s graduates, PhD candidates, postdocs, and young researchers (21–35 years old)
- All academic disciplines
- Open to applicants from across Europe
“Innovation thrives at the intersection of diverse skills and perspectives. We’re counting on this plurality to spark creative, concrete solutions,” says Technopôle Brest-Iroise.
The Experience: Learn, Collaborate, Pitch Selected participants will form multidisciplinary teams, guided by expert coaches from research and innovation ecosystems. The program includes masterclasses, workshops, and networking opportunities, culminating in an Awards Ceremony on September 11. All travel, accommodation, and meals are covered during the finale week.
Prizes Worth €80 000
- €8 000 and €5 000 prizes for the top two teams in each Mission Arena
- A €12 000 Grand Jury Prize for the best overall idea
- Additional awards
Why Brest? Brest’s vibrant scientific community, home to institutions like Ifremer, the University Hospital of Brest (CHU Brest) and the University of Western Brittany (UBO), provides the perfect backdrop for turning ideas into action. “EU TalentOn unites Europe’s brightest minds in Brest to celebrate creativity, collaboration, and scientific excellence,” says François Cuillandre, Mayor of Brest and President of Brest Métropole.
Key Dates
- Applications open: March 9, 2026 - https://eutalenton.awardsplatform.com/
- Application deadline: April 30, 2026
- The Finale Week: September 7–11, 2026
About EU TalentOn is part of Science Comes to Town, a year-long program in Brest, Kiel, and Split, designed to make science accessible and engaging for all. With over 1,000 activities and 70+ partners, the initiative bridges research, innovation, and society, fostering trust in science and inspiring the next generation of scientists.
Contacts
- contact@eutalentonbrest2026.eu
- Technopôle Brest-Iroise https://www.tech-brest-iroise.fr/