UNESCO in partnership with L’Oréal Foundation seeks applications for 15 International Fellowships that are aimed at rewarding deserving, committed and talented young women scientists, from all over the world, active in the field of life sciences.
So as to maintain the balances geographical representation, a maximum of three young women, from each of the five geo-cultural regions of the world, will be awarded these fellowships.
Candidates must already be engaged in pursuing research at the doctoral or post-doctoral level in one or allied fields of life sciences including biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, agriculture, medicine, pharmacy and physiology. Projects involving animal models (i.e. experimentation using vertebrate laboratory animals) are rejected, and proposals in the area of cosmetics research are NOT encouraged; preference is given to non cosmetic research.
Special attention will be given to candidatures from the Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
The initial fellowship is for a maximum period of 12 months, for a maximum sum of $20,000. The fellowship can be extended for up to 12 additional months with up to $20,000 additional funding upon request of the Fellow and validation of the Selection Committee.
At least half of the period of the fellowship must be undertaken abroad.. All fellows are required to complete the research project in her own country for a minimum of two months.
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants (maximum four from each applying National Commission) must meet the following general criteria:
- The National Commission must endorse all applications. UNESCO cannot entertain applications from individuals.
- Candidates must be no more than 35 years old. Thus, applicants born before 1 January 1977 will not be considered under this programme.
- Preference will be given to candidates already possessing at the time of application a Ph.D. degree (or equivalent) in the field of the life sciences. However, candidatures from students pursuing studies/research leading to a Ph.D. degree (or equivalent) will also be entertained.
- Only candidates with the necessary qualifications, who demonstrate outstanding intellectual promise and personal qualities, will be considered under this programme.
- Candidates must be proficient in reading and writing the language of instruction in the proposed country of study.
- Applicants must be in good health, both physically and mentally.
- Candidates may not be in receipt of another fellowship/grant for the project or for the period covered by the fellowship application. If the candidate receives another award, scholarship or fellowship for the proposed research project, she should inform UNESCO immediately to verify whether her application is still valid.
The last date for submitting applications is June 30, 2011
For other criteria, information and details, please visit the link.
