Call for Applications – L’Oréal‑UNESCO For Women in Science Sub‑Saharan Africa Programme 2026

Overview

The L’Oréal‑UNESCO For Women in Science Sub‑Saharan Africa Programme has officially merged the South African National Programme and the Sub‑Saharan Africa Regional Programme into a single, unified initiative. This Pan‑African programme champions excellence among women scientists across all 49 Sub‑Saharan African countries, including South Africa.

For over 25 years, the Fondation L’Oréal and UNESCO have supported women in science. The 2026 programme continues this legacy by offering research grants, training, and international recognition to outstanding doctoral and post‑doctoral candidates.

Research Fields

Applications are invited from women scientists conducting research in:

• Formal & Life Sciences
• Environmental & Physical Sciences
• Engineering & Technological Sciences

Awards and Benefits

Selected candidates will receive:

• Research Grants:
  • €10,000 for doctoral students
  • €15,000 for post‑doctoral researchers
• Training: Leadership, management, negotiation, and communication skills development
• Recognition: International visibility and inclusion in a prestigious community of excellence

Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality & Location: Must be a citizen of one of the 49 Sub‑Saharan African countries and conducting research in a recognized institution within the region.
• Doctoral Candidates:
  • Must be enrolled in a doctoral school
  • Must be in their second year of PhD or higher (first‑year students are not eligible)
• Post‑Doctoral Researchers:
  • Must have started research before the call opened
  • Must have defended their thesis after February 2021
  • Maternity clause: The 5‑year post‑thesis window is extended by one year per child
• Exclusion: Previous awardees of any L’Oréal‑UNESCO For Women in Science programme are not eligible

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Scientific excellence of the research project
• Quality of the application
• Ability to communicate and promote science

Timeline – 2026 Cycle

• March 11, 2026: Call for applications opens
• May 15, 2026: Applications close
• July 6, 2026: Final selection of candidates

Since its launch in 2010, the programme has awarded 320 endowments, supporting women scientists across Sub‑Saharan Africa.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by Agri‑web. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the official websites and portals of this opportunity for complete program details and verified application instructions. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to exercise due diligence before submitting any personal or sensitive information.