For 15 years, the L’Oreal-Unesco For Women in Science (FWS) grant recognizes outstanding women who have made scientific achievements that contribute to overcoming global challenges. Women throughout the world who are in life or health sciences are eligible.
Five outstanding women scientists are recognized each year for their research work with grants of $100,000 each. One winner on each continent is chosen for the award. The awards are given by the L’Oréal Foundation and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to support women researchers all over the world.
The awards not only recognize the contributions made by outstanding women researchers but also encourage other young women to pursue careers in science. So far, 77 women have been distinguished by the L’Oréal-UNESCO Awards since the program's beginning. In addition, two women who have received the award also went on to earn Nobel Prizes.
UNESCO was founded in 1945 and is the only U.N agency that focuses on science. The organization is dedicated to fostering science as a way to attain peace, security and well being for society. L'Oreal is a major cosmetic company who believes in women and in recognizing and rewarding their achievements in the field of science.
For more information, visit www.unesco.org/new/en/natural-sciences/priority-areas/gender-and-science/for-women-in-science-programme/2013-awards/t