Register your interest for the UCL Grand Challenges Innovation Lab Week - May 2025

FAQs

What is the format? 

Over three days, student teams of 6-10 will collaborate on a challenge linked to a Grand Challenge theme. Day 1 focuses on refining and understanding the problem statement. On Day 2, teams brainstorm and develop prototypes. Finally, on Day 3, you will finalise your solutions and pitch them to a judging panel. This fast-paced, hands-on format encourages creative problem-solving and interdisciplinary teamwork. 

When and where will it take place? 

All activities will take place May 19-21 between 10am-4pm on UCL's Bloomsbury campus. We expect all students to be fully committed and available for all three days of the event. 

What problem will I work on? 

When you fill out the Expression of Interest form, you’ll choose which theme you’re interested in tackling—either The Climate Crisis or Data-Empowered Societies. You can also share any specific issues or topics within those themes that you're passionate about. We’ll gather all the responses and, working with our experts, present a selection of problems for you to focus on during the Lab. 

Who is it suitable for? 

The Grand Challenges Student Innovation Lab is open to all UCL students, regardless of background or experience. No prior knowledge is needed—our student-designed framework will guide you through the entire process.  

Is there a cost to participate? 

No, participation is completely free! Plus, lunch will be provided each day, so you can focus on collaborating and innovating without any extra costs. 

Do I need to form a team in advance? 

No, you don’t need to form a team beforehand. We’ll assign groups, ensuring they are interdisciplinary so you can collaborate with students from different backgrounds and perspectives. 

What will I gain from taking part? 

By joining the Grand Challenges Student Innovation Lab, you'll develop an entrepreneurial mindset, strengthen your teamwork and collaboration skills, and expand your network beyond your faculty. This is a great chance to think creatively, solve real-world challenges, and connect with like-minded students from different disciplines! 

Are there networking opportunities? 

Absolutely! You'll have the chance to connect not only with fellow students from different disciplines but also with UCL academics who have entrepreneurial expertise. It’s a great opportunity to build valuable relationships and gain insights from experienced innovators. 

Can I use this experience for my CV or future job applications? 

Absolutely! Participating in the Grand Challenges Student Innovation Lab demonstrates teamwork, problem-solving, creativity, and an entrepreneurial mindset—all valuable skills for employers. It’s a great addition to your CV and can help you stand out in job applications and interviews. 

What happens after I’ve taken part in the Lab? 

If you're passionate about your solution, you can take it further with UCL’s Innovation & Enterprise Explore programme, which runs multiple times a year. UCL Innovation & Enterprise offers resources and support to help turn your idea into a startup or spinout, giving you the opportunity to develop it beyond the Innovation Lab. 

Where can I get more information? 

Not sure if the Grand Challenges Innovation Lab is right for you? We’re always happy to have a chat – m.metcalfe@ucl.ac.uk. 

You can also hear more from our student consultants on their experience so far:

• Student Build A Lab Podcast
• Building a Framework for Change: My Experience as a Student Consultant for UCL Grand Challenges
• Inaugural Build-a-Lab programme empowers students to drive meaningful change

How do I sign up? 

Submit your interest through the form below, and we’ll get in touch in early April to confirm your spot. 

Click here to apply