Call for Applications: German National Program

The For Women in Science German National Program recognizes scientific excellence among early-career female researchers in STEM. Four awards of €25,000 each are granted annually to support research, promote gender equality, and highlight role models. Eligible applicants must hold a contract or scholarship in Germany, with research carried out at universities or recognized research institutions. Applications for 2026 close on 21 February 2026.

Overview

The For Women in Science German National Program supports early-career female scientists in STEM disciplines, promoting research excellence, gender equality, and visibility as role models. The initiative is implemented in Germany by UNESCO, L’Oréal Deutschland, and the German Humboldt Network.

Objectives

• Recognize and promote scientific excellence among women in STEM

• Highlight female researchers as role models

• Support early-career scientists in advancing research and professional development

• Encourage interdisciplinary approaches, particularly combining STEM with humanities or social sciences

Eligibility

• Female early-career scientists, defined as postdocs, junior professors, or equivalent positions within four plus two years of first doctorate, with additional two years per child

• Final-year doctoral candidates are eligible if a postdoctoral contract or scholarship exists

• Employment or scholarship must be ≥50% full-time and last at least 12 months from application

• Research conducted at German universities, universities of applied sciences, or recognized research institutions (Max Planck, Helmholtz, Fraunhofer, Leibniz)

• At least 50% of employment must be research-focused

• STEM disciplines include agriculture, geosciences, informatics, veterinary medicine, and related fields

• Inter- and transdisciplinary research is encouraged

• Non-EU citizens require a valid residence permit covering at least 12 months

• Applicants may not have previously received funding from another For Women in Science component

Funding and Awards

• Four awards annually

• Each award: €25,000

• Used to support research and development initiatives proposed by the applicant

Selection Criteria

• Excellence of past and ongoing research

• Quality and feasibility of future research plans

• Commitment to the third mission of science (societal impact)

• Quantitative indicators such as publications, conference papers, and patents are considered but are not sole factors

• Among equally excellent applicants, preference is given to those with children

• Letters of recommendation and a host institute endorsement are encouraged if research depends on laboratory space or infrastructure

Application Requirements

• Online submission only (no mail or email)

• All materials in English or German

• Complete application includes:

  • 300-word research summary

  • 4–5 page detailed description of methodological and content-related research

  • CV (up to 4 pages) with five most relevant publications

  • Concise plan for award money investment

  • Proof of employment or scholarship covering 12 months after application

  • Host institute endorsement letter if required

  • Completion of all required online form fields

Timeline

• Application deadline: 21 February 2026

• Jury selection: March–May 2026

• Final selection: June 2026

• Communication materials prepared: June–July 2026

• Award ceremony: September 2026 in Düsseldorf

Evaluation Process

Applications are reviewed by a jury of scientific experts in the applicant’s field. Decisions are final and not subject to appeal. Awardees are informed immediately after jury deliberation and must maintain confidentiality until the official ceremony. Unsuccessful applicants are notified around the time of the award event.