The L'Oréal-UNESCO Women in Science Programme funds and empowers women scientists in Sub-Saharan Africa through research grants (€10,000 for doctoral, €15,000 for post-doctoral), leadership training, networking, and international recognition. It exists to bridge the gender gap in STEM by supporting women researchers' participation, excellence, and career advancement in eligible scientific disciplines.

- Eligibility: Women researchers from Sub-Saharan African countries; doctoral candidates in at least 2nd year; post-doctoral applicants must have completed thesis after Feb 2021 (maternity extensions considered); research in life sciences, environmental sciences, physical sciences, engineering, or technology; must be affiliated with a recognized institution in the region; must not have previously received a L'Oréal-UNESCO Women in Science award. - Evaluation priorities: Strong academic background, institutional affiliation, commitment to scientific advancement, research impact, innovation, and relevance to scientific progress. - Application quality: Clear articulation of research impact, innovation, and relevance; compliance with all requirements and supporting documents.

The page does not list specific past winners, but typical cohorts include early-career women scientists from Sub-Saharan Africa in doctoral or post-doctoral positions, often in life sciences, environmental sciences, or engineering, with strong publication records and clear research trajectories. Winners are usually affiliated with universities or research institutes in the region and demonstrate leadership potential.

The ideal applicant is a woman scientist from Sub-Saharan Africa, currently enrolled in a doctoral or post-doctoral program at a recognized regional institution, with a strong academic record, a clear and innovative research project within eligible disciplines, and a demonstrated commitment to advancing science in the region. She shows leadership potential and the ability to benefit from networking and professional development.