L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Award

The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science fellowship program is a collaborative initiative between L’Oréal USA and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Established in 2003, the program aims to support and advance the research careers of exceptional postdoctoral women scientists across the United States. Over the years, the program has awarded more than $5 million in fellowships to over 100 recipients, fostering a robust community of women in STEM and promoting gender equity in scientific disciplines. The fellowship is not only a monetary award but also a platform for elevating the visibility and voice of women in science. Each year, five outstanding postdoctoral researchers are selected to receive a $75,000 grant that supports both their scientific research and their outreach efforts to inspire and empower the next generation of women in science. The program supports candidates involved in basic research across various STEM fields, including but not limited to life sciences, physical/material sciences, engineering, computer science, mathematics, and more. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and affiliated with U.S.-based academic or research institutions. The award is also open to candidates from federal agencies and nonprofit organizations, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and the institution can accept the funding. Funding from the fellowship can be used for tuition fees, laboratory supplies, technical equipment, travel for scientific conferences, publication costs, and hiring research support staff, including technicians and students. Up to 10% of the funds may be allocated for community service projects beyond the scope of the research proposal. However, indirect costs such as insurance, rent, and university overhead are not covered. Awardees may request funding for their own salary if properly justified. The fellowship is administered through AAAS, which manages the application portal, coordinates the review process, and oversees fund disbursement. To apply, candidates must complete an online application, including a three-page research plan, one-page candidate and community service statements, and a detailed budget using the provided template. Three letters of recommendation are required: one from a former mentor, one from the current postdoctoral advisor, and a third from a referee of the candidate’s choosing. While transcripts are not required at submission, selected awardees must provide official transcripts for verification purposes. The selection process consists of two phases: an initial peer review by scientists in the applicant’s field, followed by evaluation by a distinguished jury of eminent scientists. Applicants are evaluated on scientific excellence, the quality and feasibility of the proposed research, intellectual merit, prior accomplishments, and the potential for career enhancement. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to community service by engaging in at least twenty hours of outreach activities in support of women and girls in science during the fellowship year. The awardees are expected to participate in the For Women in Science Awards Week, which will be held during the week of November 9, 2026. The application period for the 2026 cycle opened on November 12, 2025, and has been extended to close on February 23, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. There is no pre-application requirement such as a Letter of Intent or Concept Paper. Awards will be distributed in two installments: half at the awards ceremony in November 2026 and the remaining balance after the submission of a mid-year report. For more information, applicants can consult the program’s FAQ, budget template, and video tutorials, or contact the program directly via email. The program is recurring on an annual basis and continues to be a vital support mechanism for women pursuing advanced research careers in the sciences.

Demonstrate scientific excellence and commitment to outreach; follow application formatting guidelines closely