The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa Programme 2026 is now open for applications, offering an exceptional opportunity for women researchers across Africa to gain international recognition, funding, and professional development support.
For over 25 years, the Fondation L’Oréal and UNESCO have collaborated to empower women in science globally. In 2026, this prestigious initiative takes a bold step forward by merging the South African National Programme and the Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Programme into a single, unified Pan-African platform. This transformation creates a powerful, borderless network of scientific excellence across all 49 Sub-Saharan African countries.
This program is designed to identify, support, and elevate the next generation of African women scientists who are driving innovation and shaping the future of global research.
Program Overview
The 2026 edition of the programme seeks outstanding women researchers from leading laboratories and research institutions across Sub-Saharan Africa. It aims to strengthen scientific leadership on the continent while promoting gender equality in science.
Participants will become part of a highly respected international community of researchers and gain access to funding, training, and visibility on a global stage.
What the Programme Offers
Selected candidates will benefit from a combination of financial support and professional development opportunities, including:
1. Research Grants
- 30 doctoral candidates will receive €10,000 each
- 8 post-doctoral researchers will receive €15,000 each
These grants are designed to support research advancement, fieldwork, equipment, and academic development.
2. Capacity Building & Training
Participants will receive specialized training in:
- Leadership development
- Research management
- Negotiation skills
- Scientific communication
3. International Recognition
- Join a prestigious network of award-winning scientists
- Gain visibility within the global scientific community
- Enhance academic and professional credibility
Eligible Research Fields
Applicants must be conducting research in one of the following disciplines:
- Formal Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Environmental Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Engineering
- Technological Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Nationality & Location
- Must be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country (including South Africa)
- Must be conducting research within a recognized institution in Sub-Saharan Africa
For Doctoral Candidates
- Must be currently enrolled in a PhD program
- Must be in at least the second year of study (first-year students are not eligible)
For Post-Doctoral Researchers
- Must already be engaged in postdoctoral research
- Must have started research before the call opened
- Must have defended their PhD thesis after February 2021
- The eligibility window is extended by one year per child (maternity consideration)
General Condition
- Previous recipients of any L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science awards are not eligible
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Scientific excellence and innovation of the research project
- Overall quality and clarity of the application
- Ability to communicate scientific ideas effectively
- Potential to contribute to scientific advancement and societal impact
Application Timeline
- Call Opens: March 11, 2026
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
- Final Selection Announcement: July 6, 2026
Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare and submit their applications well before the deadline.
Why You Should Apply
This programme is more than just a research grant—it is a gateway to global recognition and career advancement. By applying, you will:
- Gain access to funding that supports impactful research
- Strengthen your leadership and professional skills
- Join a Pan-African network of leading women scientists
- Position yourself as a change-maker in your field
- Contribute to solving some of Africa’s most pressing challenges
How to Apply
To apply for the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa Programme 2026:
- Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements
- Prepare a strong research proposal and supporting documents
- Submit your application through the official platform
Click HERE to Apply
Learn more about the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa Programme 2026 HERE.
Visit OFY HERE to discover more global Award opportunities, and click HERE for more global Grant opportunities.
