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The Merck Group Innovation Cup 2026 is a global competition that invites postgraduate students to present bold, science-driven innovations with clear commercial or societal potential. Open to master’s and PhD students worldwide, the competition seeks proposals and prototypes across life sciences, materials & chemicals, digital health, diagnostics, and related engineering disciplines. Finalists are flown to Darmstadt, Germany for an intensive pitch and innovation showcase where winners share a cash prize and gain exposure to industry mentors, R&D teams, and potential corporate partners.
Benefits
- €20,000 cash prize for the winning team or individual to further develop the project.
- Fully funded trip to Darmstadt, including travel, accommodation, and participation in the final showcase and workshops.
- Access to technical mentorship from Merck researchers and business development advisors.
- Lab visits and facility tours provide insight into industry-scale R&D and manufacturing.
- Networking with investors, corporates, and fellow innovators is useful for partnerships or follow-on funding.
- Visibility and credibility — final presentation opportunities can accelerate commercialisation or academic-industry collaboration.
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Eligibility Criteria
- Open to postgraduate students (Master’s by research or PhD) currently enrolled at a recognised university.
- Projects must be original, led by students or student teams, and demonstrate clear potential for innovation.
- Research should fall within Merck’s broad interests (life sciences, materials, digital health, diagnostics, chemical innovation, environmental/clean-tech) or have clear translational value.
- Applicants must be able to travel to Germany for the final event (passport/visa arrangements are the applicant’s responsibility, though event organisers typically assist finalists).
- Teams may include multiple students, but must nominate a lead applicant.
Application process and documents required
- Online registration and submission of a short project summary.
- Full proposal: 1–2 page executive summary, technical description, and market/impact section.
- Supporting documents: CV(s) of applicant(s), academic transcript(s), letter of supervisor support, and relevant publications or prototype demo links.
- Pitch materials: slide deck and a 1–3 minute demo video (for shortlisted teams).
- Shortlisted teams are invited to virtual interviews before finalists are selected for the Darmstadt event.
Deadline: Submit your application by 31st March 2026.
