L'Oreal grants for women scientists

MANILA, Philippines - Excitement spread like wildfire especially in the scientific community when L’Oréal Philippines partnered with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and UNESCO to launch the For Women in Science National Fellowships (FWIS)-Philippines, last September.

Filipina scientists of the life and material sciences no older than 45 years old were encouraged by the three partners to apply for a P400,000 research grant. Luc Olivier Marquet, managing director of L’Oréal Philippines says, “L’Oréal has been aiding women scientists globally for almost 11 years now through the FWIS grants. It’s high time that we give that golden opportunity starting with two Filipina scientists this year.”

To accommodate more aspiring young women scientists, L’Oréal has decided to tweak some provisions of the application mechanics: The grants will now be up for grabs to women who are currently pursuing or already holding a PhD in any field of science. The deadline of application has also been moved to Feb. 18, 2011 to make way for more research proposals related to the Life and Material Sciences.

In support of the program, Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo says, “We recognize the need to boost scientific research in the country and what better way to do this than through a research grant.”

For more information on how to apply, visit www.fwis.com.ph or contact the FWIS Secretariat at fwissecretariat@eon. com.ph or call 8935642 loc. 156/111.