Deutsche Telekom‘s research and development unit, T-Labs, is launching an international science competition titled Telekom Challenge, which calls for scientists and experts from around the world to participate in the tackling of two challenges:

1. What could be an alternative to Wi-Fi? In the research stream, scientific papers are sought that include ideas on the next generation of data distribution in home networks.
2. How can safe data distribution be ensured in home networks? The development stream is focused on finding measurable improvements in home network security.

The competition is targeted at the brightest minds in the national and international research community, whether at universities, research centers, or in corporate and start-up environments.

Anyone interested can submit their application as a short proposal by March 15. Ten finalists will be selected for each stream from the solutions put forward.

The 20 finalists chosen will have from April to the end of August to elaborate on their ideas. They will be given a subsidy for taking part in a total of EUR 25,000 in the development stream and EUR 2,000 in the research stream.

The award ceremony will take place in September. The winner of the development stream will be awarded EUR 150,000, and the winner of the research stream will be awarded EUR 75,000.

“We are excited about innovative approaches for future and secure data distribution in home networks. From modern textiles to new routers or alternative wireless technologies, we can imagine a lot. With the Telekom Challenge, we are targeting the brightest minds in the national and international research community, whether at universities, research centers, or in the corporate and startup environment,” said Claudia Nemat, Deutsche Telekom Board member for Technology and Innovation.

All related information can be found at www.telekom-challenge.com. Participation in the challenge is free of charge. Telekom Challenge