Application Deadline
Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
Introduction
For over 25 years, the Fondation L’Oréal and UNESCO have stood side-by-side to champion the brilliance of women in science. Today, the programme serves as a powerful catalyst for change, uniting researchers from all 49 countries across the region, including South Africa to lead as a single, Pan-African force for global advancement.
The programme is seeking the next generation of women scientists who are poised to change the world. We invite applications from researchers dedicated to excellence in the following fields: Formal & Life Sciences, Environmental & Physical Sciences, Engineering & Technological Sciences.
Eligibility Requirements
- Nationality & Location: Must be a citizen of one of the 49 Sub-Saharan African countries (including South Africa) and be conducting research within a laboratory or institution in one of these countries.
- Research Fields: Research must be in Formal, Life, Environmental, Physical, Engineering, or Technological Sciences.
- Doctoral Candidate Requirements:
- Must be currently enrolled in a doctoral school.
- Must be in their second year of PhD or higher (first-year students are not eligible).
- Post-doctoral Researcher Requirements:
- Must be enrolled in a post-doctorate and have started their research before the call for applications opened.
- Must have defended their thesis after February 2021.
- Maternity Clause: The 5-year post-thesis window is extended by one year per child.
- General Exclusion: Previous awardees of any L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science national or regional program are not eligible.
Prize
- Research grants for 30 doctoral and 8 post doctoral research candidates
- Training in Leadership, Management, Negotiation and Communication
- 10,000€ for doctoral students
- 15,000€ for post-doctoral students
Application Timeline
- March 11, 2026: Start of the call for application/nomination
- May 15, 2026: Closing of the call for application/nomination
- July 9, 2026: Candidates’ final selection
Grant Atlas