L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science South African National Young Talents Programme

This programme identifies and rewards talented young female scientists in the field of Formal sciences, Life sciences, Environmental sciences, Physical sciences, Engineering and Technological sciences.

The L’Oreal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme launched in the Africa region in 2010. In line with the vision of supporting more female scientists across Africa, there are now two dedicated programmes for Africa:

• A national programme dedicated to South Africa
• The regional sub-Saharan Africa programme supporting the 48 other countries of the region

The South African National Programme recognizes six young female scientists annually.

• 3 research grants of R80 000 each will be allocated to 3 doctoral students enrolled in an institution and in a research laboratory in South Africa.
• 3 research grants of R160 000 each will be allocated to 3 post-docs working in a laboratory or research institute in South Africa.

The L’Oreal-UNESCO For Women in Science South Africa national programme research grants are awarded within the framework of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science partnership.

Candidates Commitment

The researchers commit to:

• Continue the research work for which the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science South African National programme research grant was obtained. A report on the research work must be submitted 12 months after receiving the research grant.
• Carry out the expenses detailed in the estimated budget of the application file.
• Participate in the Management and Leadership training as well as in the award ceremony. Participation in these events is mandatory, transportation and accommodation costs for the award winners will be covered by L’Oreal South Africa

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following general criteria:

• Doctorates
  • South African Citizenship
  • Be enrolled in a South African university and carrying out their doctorate in a research laboratory in one of the 9 Provinces
  • Conducting research in one of the scientific fields
• Post-Doctorates
  • South African Citizenship
  • Be enrolled in post-doctorate in a research laboratory or an institution in one of the 9 provinces
  • Conducting research in one of the scientific fields
  • Having started the post-doctorate before the opening date of the call for applications
• Note: Candidates who have already been supported by one of the national or regional L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science program are not eligible. Candidates must have at least one year remaining in the program, in order to utilize the funds between 2024 and 2025.

For more information, visit Fondation l’Oreal.