In September 2026, the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) will return to Germany for the first time since 1993. The 37th edition of this prestigious competition will be hosted by Kiel University (Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, CAU), in partnership with the Stiftung Jugend forscht e. V., as part of the EU-funded initiative Science Comes to Town.
Established in 1989, EUCYS brings together the winners of national science competitions from across Europe—such as Jugend forscht in Germany—to showcase their research and compete at the highest international level. From 22 to 27 September 2026, young scientists aged 14 to 20 will gather in Kiel for a week of scientific exchange, networking and inspiration. Participants will have the opportunity to meet peers with similar interests, engage with leading European researchers, and present innovative projects spanning all fields of science.
EUCYS serves as a launching pad for future research excellence and innovation careers.
By bringing together students from diverse countries, disciplines and backgrounds, the contest promotes cooperation, intercultural dialogue and the free exchange of ideas. It aims to strengthen Europe’s scientific community by encouraging young people to pursue careers in research, technology and innovation.
Each participating country may nominate up to three winning projects from its national competition, with a maximum of six contestants in total. Projects may be submitted by individuals or teams of up to three participants. To take part in EUCYS, students must provide a written project, a short video and a poster suitable for public exhibition, and must be ready to present their work and answer questions from a scientific jury.
The 2026 edition in Kiel will highlight Europe’s most promising young researchers and offer them a platform to connect, collaborate and demonstrate their talent to a broad European audience. With its strong focus on excellence, inclusion and scientific curiosity, EUCYS continues to play a vital role in supporting the next generation of innovators.