Applications are now open for the UNESCO–L’Oréal For Women in Science Awards 2027. Five outstanding women researchers will each receive a €100,000 prize for groundbreaking contributions to science, mathematics, and computer science.
Overview
Outstanding women scientists from around the world now have an opportunity to gain global recognition and significant research support through the UNESCO–L’Oréal For Women in Science Awards 2027.
The prestigious international awards programme will recognize five exceptional women researchers whose work has made remarkable contributions to scientific advancement in Physical Sciences, Mathematics, and Computer Science. Each laureate will receive a €100,000 prize to support their research and continue driving innovation in their field.
For nearly three decades, the programme has celebrated women scientists who are breaking barriers, advancing knowledge, and helping solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
About the UNESCO–L’Oréal For Women in Science Awards
Established in 1998, the UNESCO–L’Oréal For Women in Science Programme aims to increase the visibility of women in science, strengthen female leadership in research, and encourage greater gender equality across scientific disciplines.
Every year, the programme honors five outstanding women scientists from different regions of the world. The awards alternate between two major scientific categories:
- Life Sciences (even years)
- Physical Sciences, Mathematics and Computer Science (odd years)
The 2027 edition will focus on researchers working in Physical Sciences, Mathematics, and Computer Science.
To date, more than 140 women scientists have received the prestigious award, including seven Nobel Prize winners.
Award Value
Each selected laureate will receive:
- €100,000 research prize
- International recognition
- Global visibility for their scientific contributions
- Access to the UNESCO and L’Oréal scientific community
- Opportunities to inspire future generations of women in STEM
The prize supports researchers in continuing their groundbreaking work and expanding the impact of their scientific contributions.
Who Can Be Nominated?
The 2027 awards will recognize one outstanding researcher from each of the following regions:
- Africa and the Arab States
- Asia and the Pacific
- Europe
- Latin America and the Caribbean
- North America
Candidates must have demonstrated exceptional scientific achievement and made significant contributions to advancing knowledge within Physical Sciences, Mathematics, or Computer Science.
Fields of Research
Eligible research areas include, but are not limited to:
Physical Sciences
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Earth Sciences
- Astronomy
- Environmental Sciences
Mathematics
- Pure Mathematics
- Applied Mathematics
- Statistics
- Mathematical Modelling
- Computational Mathematics
Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Data Science
- Algorithms
- Cybersecurity
- Computational Systems
Selection Criteria
Candidates will be evaluated based on:
- Scientific excellence
- Originality of research
- Impact on their field of study
- Contribution to scientific advancement
- International recognition of their work
- Potential for future breakthroughs
An independent international jury composed of renowned scientific experts will select the five laureates.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Nominations Open | Currently Open |
| Nominations Deadline | 30 June 2026 |
| Final Selection | December 2026 |
| Awards Ceremony | 2027 |
Why This Award Matters
Despite significant progress, women remain underrepresented across many STEM disciplines. Women scientists continue to face barriers in funding, publication opportunities, leadership positions, and visibility within research communities.
The UNESCO–L’Oréal For Women in Science Awards aim to address these challenges by:
- Promoting women’s achievements in science
- Increasing visibility of female researchers
- Supporting scientific careers
- Encouraging young women to pursue STEM fields
- Building more inclusive scientific communities
The programme has become one of the world’s most respected recognitions for women in science.
Global Impact of the Programme
Since its launch, the programme has achieved remarkable milestones:
- More than 140 international laureates recognized
- Seven Nobel Prize winners among former laureates
- Nearly three decades of supporting women in science
- Coverage across more than 140 countries and territories
Many former laureates have gone on to lead transformative scientific discoveries and innovations that continue to benefit society worldwide.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through a nomination process.
To nominate a candidate:
- Register on the For Women in Science platform.
- Complete the nomination process.
- Submit all required supporting documents.
- Ensure submission before 30 June 2026.
Candidates are encouraged to carefully review eligibility requirements and nomination guidelines before applying.
Summary Table
| Award | UNESCO–L’Oréal For Women in Science Awards 2027 |
| Organizers | UNESCO & L’Oréal Foundation |
| Prize Value | €100,000 Per Laureate |
| Number of Awards | 5 |
| Fields | Physical Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science |
| Eligible Regions | Global |
| Nomination Deadline | 30 June 2026 |
| Selection Announcement | December 2026 |
| Award Ceremony | 2027 |
Conclusion
The UNESCO–L’Oréal For Women in Science Awards 2027 represent one of the most prestigious international recognitions available to women researchers. With a €100,000 prize, worldwide visibility, and recognition from leading scientific institutions, the programme continues to celebrate and support women whose discoveries are shaping the future of science.
For outstanding women researchers working in Physical Sciences, Mathematics, and Computer Science, this award offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain global recognition and further advance their groundbreaking work.
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