Tomorrow’s logistics leaders inspire real-world action
Science and young talent are essential drivers of innovation and shaping the future of logistics. With over 50 university chairs specialising in logistics-related fields, the Hamburg Metropolitan Region is exceptionally well positioned. Unfortunately, not all ideas developed in academia make it into practice.
As the Logistics Initiative Hamburg, we have been giving young logistics professionals the opportunity to present their ideas to a broad network of academia, industry and the public through the YPAL since 2010. The award comes with prize money of up to €2,500.
The aim of the Young Professionals' Award Logistics is to highlight research expertise and collaboration between academia and industry in Hamburg's logistics sector, while promoting and strengthening activities in this area. The Logistics Initiative Hamburg seeks to encourage young people to excel in their studies and in their research and final thesis projects.
The current application period closes on 30 November 2026.
If you have any questions, please contact us at ypal@hamburg-logistik.net.
Why Should I Apply?
- Inspire real-world practice with insights from your thesis!
- Raise your profile and advance your career by presenting to a broad professional audience!
- Win attractive cash prizes! (1st place: €1,500, 2nd place: €700, 3rd place: €300)
Eligibility Requirements
All the key information and requirements for a successful application can be found in the application form.
The basic eligibility criteria are as follows:
- The thesis must have been written at an institute or chair within the Hamburg Metropolitan Region.
- The thesis must be relevant to the logistics sector.
- The thesis must have been published or completed and assessed within a specified period.
Application Process
The application deadline for the YPAL 2027 is 30 November 2026. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and submit a complete application. Please send all documents by email to ypal@hamburg-logistik.net. You can also contact us at this address if you have any questions.
Once a complete application has been submitted, our expert jury will review all documents and evaluate them according to a predefined scoring system. The top three submissions will be selected and invited to participate in the Logistik trifft Wissenschaft event, where each finalist will present their thesis. The winner will then be awarded the YPAL 2027.
Please note that participation in the Logistik trifft Wissenschaft event is a prerequisite for receiving the YPAL award.
Important Dates
30. November 2026
Application Deadline
02. Februar 2027
Announcement of the Top 3
22. Februar 2027
Presentation of the YPAL Award as part of the Logistics Meets Science event
The Jury
The independent expert jury comprises representatives from logistics, retail, industry, IT and research.
For any questions regarding sponsorship opportunities, please contact our team at ypal@hamburg-logistik.net.
