29/03/2026
The L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme has officially launched its call for applications, and we could not be more excited to share this with our extended community of researchers, academics, and science champions. We would like to invite your institution to participate in and disseminate the 2026 Call for Application.
Starting in 2026, we are breaking down borders to create a single, prestigious community of excellence. The South African National Programme and the Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Programme have officially merged to become the unified to become the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa Programme. This merger brings together women scientists from all 49 countries of Sub-Saharan Africa, including South Africa into one powerful, pan-African fellowship community.
Together, we are building something bigger, bolder, and more impactful than ever before. And this journey begins with you, your networks, your voices, and your belief in the transformative power of women in science.
About the programme
The L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme has, for more than two decades, championed the vital role of women in advancing scientific knowledge. Through this programme, 38 women scientists across Sub-Saharan Africa will be recognised and financially supported in the 2026 edition. Doctoral researchers will each receive a grant of €10,000, while post-doctoral researchers will each receive €15,000 to advance their research. Beyond financial support, all laureates benefit from a bespoke training programme in leadership, management, negotiation, and scientific communication.
Eligible scientific disciplines: Applications are welcomed from researchers working across the following fields:
Formal Sciences — Mathematics, Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
Life Sciences — Biology, Medicine, Biotechnology & Health Sciences
Environmental Sciences — Ecology, Geosciences & Climate Change
Physical Sciences — Physics & Chemistry
Engineering & Technology — Applied Sciences & Engineering
How to apply & further information
We kindly request that you share this announcement widely across your faculties, research departments, and postgraduate offices to ensure that no deserving candidate is missed.
For full programme details and to submit an application, please visit: 🔗 https://www.forwomeninscience.com/challenge/show/157
Application Deadline: 17 April 2026
For any enquiries, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Head the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa Programme: [email protected]
The World needs Science, and Science needs Women