Deadline: February 13, 2026
The L’Oréal For Women in Science Award 2026 recognises and supports exceptional postdoctoral women researchers making significant contributions to science in the United States. Designed to elevate women in STEM and promote representation across scientific fields, the programme provides substantial financial support and a platform for outreach. The L’Oréal For Women in Science Award 2026 aims to drive both scientific advancement and gender equality through research excellence and community engagement. This call offers a valuable opportunity for postdoctoral researchers committed to advancing their work while inspiring the next generation of women in science.
About the Opportunity
The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science programme awards five outstanding postdoctoral women scientists each year. Each awardee receives US$75,000 to support her ongoing research and outreach activities. The programme is administered in partnership with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and focuses on basic research fields including life sciences, engineering, technology, physical sciences, computer sciences, and mathematics. Awardees are also expected to engage in outreach activities that encourage girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM. All selected fellows must be available for the For Women in Science Awards Week, scheduled for the week of 9 November 2026.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all the following requirements:
- Must have earned a PhD.
- Must have begun a postdoctoral position by 31 January 2026 and must maintain postdoctoral status throughout the fellowship year.
- Must be a U.S. citizen (native-born or naturalised) or a U.S. permanent resident.
- Must be affiliated with a U.S.-based academic or research institution and committed to conducting their postdoctoral research within the United States.
- Must conduct basic research in one of the eligible fields: life sciences, physical sciences, materials science, engineering and technology, computer science, or mathematics.
- Must not hold a faculty position.
- Must commit to at least 20 hours of outreach, which may include mentoring, school visits, media engagement, and participation in events promoting women and girls in science.
- Must be available during the week of 9 November 2026 for programme-related activities.
Benefits / Award Details
- A total award of US$75,000 for each of the five selected recipients.
- Funding supports both research activities and outreach engagements.
- Access to the L’Oréal For Women in Science alumnae network and visibility opportunities.
- Direct support for initiatives that inspire and guide women and girls pursuing STEM careers.
Application Requirements / Documents
Applicants will be required to prepare and submit:
- A complete online application through the official L’Oréal USA For Women in Science platform.
- An updated curriculum vitae.
- A research proposal aligned with the eligible basic research fields.
- An outreach plan outlining how the applicant will fulfil the required 20 hours.
- A budget plan using the official template provided by AAAS.
- Any additional documentation required by the programme portal.
Timeline / Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 13 February 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time
- Awards Week: Week of 9 November 2026
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official application portal. Applicants are encouraged to prepare early by reviewing all eligibility conditions, securing institutional support, and drafting strong research and outreach proposals. A dedicated email contact is available for programme inquiries.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by a panel of scientific experts convened by AAAS. Evaluation criteria include scientific excellence, significance of research, clarity of research proposal, outreach commitment, and alignment with the programme’s goals of supporting women in science. Final selections are made from a highly competitive pool of qualified postdoctoral researchers.
Additional Information / Terms
- All research must be conducted at a U.S.-based institution.
- Awardees are responsible for fulfilling all outreach commitments during the fellowship year.
- Applicants must ensure their postdoctoral status is maintained throughout the award cycle.
- All questions regarding eligibility or submission requirements may be directed to the programme’s official contact email.
Host Organisation
The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science programme is administered in partnership with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). L’Oréal’s global initiative champions women scientists, recognising their innovative contributions and promoting gender balance across the scientific community.
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