On 11 February, the world marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This day highlights the essential role of women in research, innovation and technological development. At the same time, it reminds institutions and donors of the need to expand equal access to funding and international cooperation.
To support women researchers from Ukraine, we have prepared a selection of current grants, awards and international programmes that are open for applications in 2026.
1. L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science Programme
Description: The international L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science programme supports outstanding women researchers in STEM fields. The programme offers national and international fellowships and recognises scientific excellence and leadership.
Who can apply: Women researchers at different career stages, depending on the call. Ukrainian scientists can apply through relevant national or international competitions.
More information: https://www.forwomeninscience.com/
2. MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships (Horizon Europe)
Description: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships support advanced research training and international mobility. The programme encourages applications from women researchers and promotes gender balance in research careers.
Who can apply: Researchers holding a PhD who meet mobility requirements. Ukrainian researchers can apply in cooperation with host institutions in EU Member States or associated countries.
More information: https://marie-sklodowska-curie-actions.ec.europa.eu/actions/postdoctoral-fellowships
3. UNESCO–L’Oréal International Awards
Description: These prestigious international awards recognise women scientists for groundbreaking research and long-term impact. The awards strengthen global visibility and leadership of women in science.
Who can apply: Established women scientists nominated by academic or research institutions.
More information: https://www.unesco.org/en/prizes/loreal
4. The European Research Council (ERC) Grants
Description: ERC grants support frontier research across all scientific domains. The ERC promotes gender equality and actively encourages applications from women researchers at Starting, Consolidator and Advanced levels.
Who can apply: Researchers of any nationality working in or moving to an EU Member State or associated country. Ukrainian women researchers can apply with eligible host institutions.
More information: https://erc.europa.eu/funding
5. Women TechEU
Description: Women TechEU supports women-led deep tech start-ups. The programme provides financial support and business coaching to help scale innovative technology ventures.
Who can apply: Early-stage deep tech start-ups led by women founders, established in EU Member States or associated countries.
More information: https://eismea.ec.europa.eu/programmes/european-innovation-ecosystems/women-techeu_en
Why This Matters
These programmes not only provide funding. They also create access to international networks, strengthen research careers and enhance global visibility. For women researchers from Ukraine, participation in such initiatives opens pathways to new collaborations, leadership roles and long-term institutional partnerships.
Find more verified grants and funding opportunities for researchers and academic institutions in the grants section of GetGrant.