For Women in Science 2026 Award

At ELIZA, we recognize that artificial intelligence research remains significantly gender-imbalanced, and we are at the forefront of leveraging the gap through targeted support for underrepresented groups. Our Master’s program actively recruits and supports women and other underrepresented groups in AI and machine learning research. We believe that diverse perspectives are essential for responsible AI development, and we actively encourage our community to pursue every available opportunity for advancement.​

About the For Women in Science Award

The “For Women in Science” program represents a successful global partnership between UNESCO and L’Oréal that has been promoting women in science since 1998. In Germany, this initiative is supported by the German Commission for UNESCO, L’Oréal Deutschland, and the German Humboldt Network, offering four awards of €25,000 each to exceptional female researchers.

Eligibility for ELIZA Community Members

ELIZA doctoral students and alumni may be eligible if they are:

• Doctoral students in their final year

• Postdocs, postdoctoral researchers, or junior professors within four to six years following their doctorate

• Holding a valid employment contract or scholarship at a German university or public research institution (minimum 50% full-time position) with at least twelve months remaining​

The award welcomes researchers in natural sciences, engineering, geosciences, agricultural sciences, and medicine, with interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research profiles strongly encouraged —making it particularly relevant for AI and machine learning researchers working at interdisciplinary boundaries.​

How to Use the €25,000 Award

Winners have flexibility in using the prize money according to a pre-submitted concept. Funding can support:​

• Research projects and equipment purchases

• International research stays and collaborations

• Childcare and domestic help​

Female scientists with children are expressly encouraged to apply, and among equally excellent applicants, preference is given to those with children.​

Why This Matters for ELIZA

This award aligns perfectly with ELIZA’s mission to support women in advancing their research careers in technical fields. By encouraging our community members to apply, we continue our commitment to not just opening doors, but ensuring our scholars have the resources to walk through them and lead the next generation of AI research.

Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted by February 21, 2026.​

For complete information and to apply, visit the For Women in Science Germany website.