The Una Europa Student Project Incubator is offering its sixth edition in Autumn 2026, focusing on "Challenges in Green Chemistry." This challenge-based program invites students from diverse academic backgrounds to collaborate on sustainability issues linked to chemistry, its societal impacts, and economic realities. It aims to foster fresh perspectives and interdisciplinary solutions to complex environmental problems by leveraging chemical innovation for lasting change. Participants will work in teams to translate innovative ideas into practical solutions.
Program Overview
• Program Title: Una Europa Student Project Incubator Autumn 2026 | Challenges in Green Chemistry
• Program Format: An in-person programme held at Freie Universität Berlin from 21–23 September 2026. It is integrated into the “Sustainability in Higher Education – Between Transformation and Vibe Shifts” conference.
• Preparatory Sessions: The programme includes two mandatory 2-hour online preparatory sessions in July/August 2026, with exact dates to be announced.
• Core Activity: Participants will collaborate in multidisciplinary teams on defined challenges related to sustainable chemistry.
• Outcome: Teams will present their final project ideas to the conference audience, which includes sustainability experts from around the globe.
Participant Benefits
• Collaboration: Work within an international and interdisciplinary student team.
• Skill Development: Strengthen intercultural, problem-solving, and project development skills.
• Practical Application: Put academic skills into practice by addressing a real-life challenge.
• Networking: Attend a high-profile academic conference, connect with international students and researchers.
• Presentation Opportunity: Take the stage to present your team's prototype to an expert audience.
Program Experience
• Team Collaboration: Participants will work in multidisciplinary teams on specific challenges in sustainable chemistry.
• Mentorship: Teams will receive support and guidance from mentors throughout the process.
• Workshops: The program includes three distinct workshop sessions focused on ideation methods and tools, such as the Business Model Canvas, to help structure ideas and explore implementation pathways.
• Conference Access: Participants will have access to the full conference programme, including keynotes, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
• Eligible Applicants: The programme is open to undergraduate students, master’s students, and doctoral researchers.
• Enrollment Requirement: Applicants must be currently enrolled at an Una Europa partner university.
• Academic Background: Applications are welcomed from all areas of study. Students from business, creative arts, humanities, and other fields are encouraged to apply to create holistic solutions.
• Language Proficiency: A minimum English language proficiency of B2 level is required for effective participation.
• Special Condition: Please note that participants from University College Dublin will be selected from the winners of the Time Capsule micro-challenge, and no further applications from UCD students and doctoral researchers can be accepted for this program.
Cost and Funding
• Financial Support: Selected students will receive a grant to participate.
• Covered Expenses: The grant covers the conference fee, travel costs, and accommodation in Berlin from 20–24 September 2026.
Application Process
• Application Method: To apply, please complete the official application form.
• Application Deadline: The submission deadline is 23:59 CEST on 24 May 2026.
• Notification of Acceptance: Applicants will be notified of the outcome by 19 June 2026.
• AI Usage Policy: While AI tools may be used during the preparation process, final answers must be the applicant's own original work.
The Una Europa Student Project Incubator is a dynamic format that provides students with a valuable opportunity to enhance their project development skills, network with peers across Europe, and gain experience in creating initiatives that address real-world issues. This initiative is part of a broader effort to empower students across the alliance, initiated under the Una.Futura project.