The L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards recognise outstanding women researchers whose work is helping to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Now in its 28th year, the programme has supported more than 5,000 women scientists from over 140 countries and territories.
Professor Teichmann, FMedSci FRS, is Chair in Stem Cell Medicine at the University of Cambridge. She has been recognised for her outstanding interdisciplinary research using genome science and computational biology to understand the human body at single-cell resolution.
Her pioneering work in single-cell technologies has provided fundamental resources for biomedical research, drug discovery and public health. She is also recognised as an inspiring role model, advocate for inclusion in science, and leading educator.
Professor Teichmann is one of five international laureates announced by UNESCO and Fondation L’Oréal for 2026. The laureates will be honoured at a ceremony at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on 11 June 2026.
The 2026 awards highlight the vital role women scientists are playing in tackling global health and environmental challenges, from tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to nutritional psychiatry, cardiovascular health, agricultural biotechnology and genomics.
This year’s laureates were selected from a record 504 nominations from 89 countries by an independent international jury. Across its history, the L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science programme has recognised 142 International Award Laureates, seven of whom have gone on to receive a Nobel Prize in science.
The announcement also marks the renewal of UNESCO and Fondation L’Oréal’s landmark partnership for a further six years, strengthening their shared commitment to advancing gender equality in science.
Despite progress, women still account for only around one in three researchers globally. The For Women in Science programme aims to accelerate the careers of women scientists, remove barriers to participation, and inspire future generations of girls and young women to pursue scientific careers.
Professor Sarah A. Teichmann’s recognition is a significant moment for UK science and reflects the UK’s continued contribution to UNESCO’s global science agenda. Her work demonstrates how cutting-edge research, international collaboration and inclusive scientific leadership can help improve lives around the world.
