L'Oréal USA Honors 2025 For Women in Science Awardees

The L'Oréal USA For Women in Science program has recognized hundreds of women in STEM fields since its inception in 2003, awarding over $5 million in grants to support their continued research. The US program is part of the global L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards, which specifically supports research by postdoctoral women scientists. The 2025 L'Oréal USA For Women in Science awardees were honored at an evening event co-hosted by Vox and L'Oréal Groupe on November 13, 2025. This year's recipients include Kaveeta Kaw, a biomedical researcher at Emory University's School of Medicine, and Kaitlyn A. Webster, a developmental biologist at Harvard Medical School. According to UNESCO, women make up only one-third of the world's scientific researchers, and L'Oréal's For Women in Science initiative aims to raise that number by inspiring more women to pursue careers across all scientific disciplines. Kaw is researching pulmonary arterial hypertension using 3D modeling to better understand the disease and tailor treatment therapies to individual patients. Webster is studying developmental biology, with a focus on understanding the mechanisms that control cell fate and behavior. Both researchers expressed gratitude for the recognition and support provided by the L'Oréal USA For Women in Science program. "We are thrilled to recognize these exceptional women scientists who are making significant contributions to their fields," said L'Oréal USA's Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Tressie C. Loudermilk. "Their work has the potential to improve the lives of millions of people around the world, and we are proud to support their research and careers." The L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards have been recognizing outstanding women scientists since 1998. The program has supported over 3,000 women scientists worldwide, providing them with grants, recognition, and networking opportunities. The awards are a testament to the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in the scientific community. In a statement, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay emphasized the need to address the underrepresentation of women in science. "Women's participation in science is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting a more equitable and inclusive society," she said. "We are committed to supporting women scientists and promoting their contributions to the advancement of knowledge and innovation." The L'Oréal USA For Women in Science program will continue to support the awardees in their research and careers, providing them with grants and networking opportunities. The program's goal is to inspire more women to pursue careers in science and to promote diversity and inclusion in the scientific community.