The application period for the 13th HLF runs from November 11, 2025, until February 11, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Berlin time (CET / UTC+1). Young researchers at all phases of their careers (Undergraduate/Pre-Master, Graduate PhD or Postdoc) are encouraged to complete and submit their applications via the following link:
http://application.heidelberg-laureate-forum.org
The 13th HLF will take place from September 13 to 18, 2026 (with young researcher registration taking place on September 12). This prominent, versatile event combines scientific, social and outreach activities in a unique atmosphere, fueled by comprehensive exchange and scientific inspiration. Laureate lectures and discussions as well as various interactive program elements are some of the Forum's fundamental elements, which are delivered in an environment that provides the space and time for unfettered exchange among attendees.
Over the course of the weeklong event, young researchers will have the chance to network and exchange ideas with their peers – 200 of the brightest minds from mathematics and computer science. They will also be given the exclusive opportunity to profoundly connect with their scientific role models and gain valuable insights by interacting with laureates in an unmediated and informal setting. As one young researcher put it: “The HLF, to me, presents an unparalleled opportunity. An opportunity to learn, be inspired, network and collaborate. I vividly remember leaving the HLF overwhelmed with motivation and brimming with ideas. Greatness begets greatness, and the HLF is a space that embodies this sentiment."
All applications that are completed and submitted by the deadline are meticulously reviewed by an international committee of experts appointed by the award-granting institutions to ensure that the most qualified candidates are invited. There are 100 spaces available for researchers from both mathematics and computer science, respectively. All applicants will be notified by the end of April 2026 about whether or not they have been selected.
For questions regarding the requirements and the application process, please see our FAQs (
https://www.heidelberg-laureate-forum.org/young-researchers/faq.html) or contact Young Researchers Relations at:
yr@heidelberg-laureate-forum.org
For more information, please visit:
www.heidelberg-laureate-forum.org
Background
The Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation (HLFF) annually organizes the Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF), a networking conference where 200 outstanding young researchers in mathematics and computer science interact with the recipients of the most renowned prizes in their fields. The HLFF was established and is funded by the German Klaus Tschira Stiftung, which promotes natural sciences, mathematics and computer science. The scientific partners of the HLF are the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS) and Heidelberg University. The HLF is strongly supported by the award-granting institutions: the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the International Mathematical Union (IMU) and the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters (DNVA).
Applicant Inquiries
Sarah MacLeod, Martina Wagner-Opitz, Yasmin Keese, Anna Natter
Young Researchers Relations
Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation
yr@heidelberg-laureate-forum.org
Telephone: +49 6221 533-387
Press Inquiries
Nicole Schmitt, Nikolas A. Mariani
Communications
Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation
media@heidelberg-laureate-forum.org
Telephone: +49 6221 533-384
Internet:
www.heidelberg-laureate-forum.org
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/HeidelbergLaureateForum
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/hlforum/
YouTube:
www.youtube.com/LaureateForum
HLFF Blog:
http://scilogs.spektrum.de/hlf/
Flickr:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/hlforum/albums
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/heidelberg-laureate-forum-foundation