Application Deadline: August 14, 2026
Women researchers across the Caribbean now have an exciting opportunity to secure funding for their scientific research through the L’Oréal-UNESCO Young Talents Caribbean for Women in Science Program 2026.
Launched to encourage greater female participation in scientific research, the initiative recognizes outstanding women scientists whose work has the potential to drive innovation and solve real-world challenges. The program supports talented researchers in various STEM fields while encouraging them to inspire future generations of women in science.
About the Program
The L’Oréal-UNESCO Young Talents Caribbean for Women in Science Program was established in 2023 to celebrate scientific excellence among young women researchers across the Caribbean region.
Beyond rewarding academic achievement, the initiative aims to reduce gender inequality in science by providing financial support and increasing the visibility of women making significant contributions to scientific advancement.
Eligible research disciplines include:
- Life Sciences
- Environmental Sciences
- Materials Science
- Mathematics
- Computer and Information Sciences
- Engineering Sciences
- Technology
The program is supported through a partnership involving L’Oréal Caribe, UNESCO, the Caribbean Academy of Sciences, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (Caribbean Division).
Award Value
Successful applicants will receive:
- Research grant worth $15,000 USD
- Recognition for scientific excellence
- Increased visibility within the international scientific community
- Opportunity to inspire young women pursuing careers in STEM
Two outstanding women researchers will be selected for the 2026 edition of the program.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to women researchers who are nationals of eligible Caribbean countries and territories under one of the following categories:
Doctoral Students
Applicants must:
- Be nationals of an eligible Caribbean country or territory.
- Be enrolled in a PhD program within the Caribbean region.
- Conduct research in one of the eligible scientific disciplines.
- Have progressed beyond the first year of their doctoral studies.
Postdoctoral Researchers
Applicants must:
- Hold nationality from an eligible Caribbean country or territory.
- Be enrolled in a postdoctoral research program at a recognized laboratory, research institute, or higher education institution within the Caribbean.
- Possess a doctoral degree in one of the eligible scientific fields.
- Be actively conducting research.
Early Career Scientists
Applicants must:
- Be nationals of an eligible Caribbean country or territory.
- Be employed by a research laboratory, institute, or higher education institution in the Caribbean.
- Have held their research position for less than three years.
- Hold a doctoral degree.
- Conduct research in one of the eligible STEM disciplines.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Overall quality of the application
- Scientific excellence and originality of the research
- Potential impact of the research project
- Ability to communicate science and inspire younger generations
- English language proficiency
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
| Applications Open | May 19, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | August 14, 2026 |
| Final Selection | September 7, 2026 |
How to Apply
Interested candidates should complete their online application through the official For Women in Science application portal before the deadline.
Application Portal: Apply Here
For complete program guidelines and additional information, visit the official program page:
Official Information: L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Program
