Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The 28th edition of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards will honor five women scientists for pioneering work in life and environmental sciences. Their research tackles global health and environmental challenges, including advances in tissue engineering, genomics, agriculture, and the impact of nutrition on mental health. The laureates were chosen from a record 504 nominations spanning 89 countries, reflecting growing scientific excellence among women worldwide.
This year’s laureates join more than 5,000 women previously recognized by the program, including 142 International Award Laureates, seven of whom have received Nobel Prizes in science. An independent international jury, chaired by Professor Brigitte L. Kieffer, a leading figure in medical research, conducted the selection process.
Despite these achievements, UNESCO data show persistent gender imbalance, with women accounting for only one in three researchers globally. The Fondation L’Oréal and UNESCO partnership, ongoing for 28 years, works to address this gap through initiatives like the For Girls in Science program, support for early-career researchers in 140 countries, and the International Awards. This partnership has been renewed for six more years.
Among the 2026 laureates is Professor Liesl Zühlke of South Africa, honored for her work improving care for children with heart conditions, especially rheumatic heart disease, which disproportionately affects impoverished children.