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From research on cancer and neurodegenerative diseases to solutions addressing climate challenges, hardware security, and innovations in assisted reproduction – these are just some of the fields in which groundbreaking scientific projects led by women are being developed in Slovakia. The L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science programme is launching its 10th anniversary edition and inviting female researchers under 40 with a PhD to apply. Three winners will receive financial support totalling €21,000 to develop their research further and advance their careers. Applications for the 10th edition can be submitted via www.prezenyvovede.sk until April 30, 2026.

Although women represent a significant share of the scientific community in Europe, their presence in research and engineering remains comparatively low. According to Eurostat data, women accounted for 41% of science and engineering professionals in the EU in 2023. In Slovakia, however, the figure was even lower – 34.3%, placing the country among the lowest represented in the European Union. It is therefore essential to create space for women’s achievements to be visible not only within the scientific community but also in society at large.

Applications now open

In its 10th year, the award will once again recognise female scientists in three categories: engineering and technology, life sciences, and physical and formal sciences. Eligible applicants are female researchers under 40 with a PhD who work at Slovak scientific institutions.

The three laureates will share financial support of €21,000, which they may use not only for further research but also for their professional and personal development. Applications are open from February 1 to April 30, 2026, and can be submitted via www.prezenyvovede.sk.

Dozens of stories, one common goal

Over the past decade, the programme has supported 22 outstanding female scientists, who have shared a total of €112,000. Their research spans medicine, energy, environmental challenges, and cutting-edge technological and material innovations. What unites them is the courage to ask new questions and to persevere in an environment where equal opportunities for women are not yet guaranteed.

“Over the past ten years, we have witnessed young female scientists grow into respected experts with the courage to pursue their own paths. Many former laureates now work at leading research institutions, head their own teams, and are transferring their research from the laboratory into practical applications. We see this anniversary edition as an invitation to the next generation – not to hesitate to apply, to step into the spotlight, and to make their voices heard,” said Ivona Karvinen, Programme Director for the Czech Republic and Slovakia at L’Oréal.

The L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science programme in Slovakia is implemented in cooperation with the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS), the Slovak Organisation for Research and Development Activities (SOVVA), and the Slovak Commission for UNESCO.

Source: Marcela Danišová, AMI Communications Slovakia