Henkel is seeking female researchers in hair science and related fields to apply for the Martha Schwarzkopf Award for women in science, recognizing outstanding contributions and emerging talent in the field.

Background

Henkel is once again recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women in science with the fourth edition of the Martha Schwarzkopf Award for Women in Science. This award highlights excellence in hair science, honoring outstanding, long-term contributions while also encouraging the next generation of researchers through the “Emerging Talent” category, dedicated to young female scientists. The application phase begins on March 8th, aligning with International Women's Day, reinforcing Henkel’s commitment to advancing women in scientific research.

Scientific progress benefits from diversity—yet women remain underrepresented in many areas of scientific research. Through this award, Henkel aims to help close this gap by recognizing excellence, fostering new talent, and encouraging more women to pursue and lead in scientific fields.

The award is named after Martha Schwarzkopf, a pioneering leader who played a key role in shaping hair research and innovation. As one of the first women in Germany to head a company, she established the Institute for Hair Research, laying the foundation for a legacy that continues today. Schwarzkopf remains Henkel Consumer Brands’ largest hair category brand, with its technical innovations built on the expertise of dedicated research and development teams, hair test salons, and academies worldwide. Inspired by Martha Schwarzkopf’s entrepreneurial vision and commitment to scientific progress, this award not only honors past achievements but also supports the future of women in hair science and related fields.

What we're looking for

We are looking for female researchers with achievements in hair or fiber research or related fields. Scientists and young female talents from natural, material, and cosmetic sciences; biotechnology; mechanical engineering; computer science; and medicine are invited to apply. Eligible candidates include established scientists and early-career researchers with a master’s degree in these disciplines.

Topics of interest

Hair research, including hair structure and hair fiber mechanics
Fiber science, including wool, textile, and keratin-based materials
Advances in cosmetic science related to hair and fiber research
Advances in cosmetic science related to hair and fiber research
Mechanical behavior of hair and fiber structures
Simulations of biological surfaces and material interactions with hair, fibers, and scalp
Scientific models for studying fiber properties and interactions
Computational modeling of fiber structure and active substance effects
Surface analysis methods for fiber structure research
Biotechnological research on hair fiber structure, composition, and protein-based innovations

Required qualifications

Demonstrated research achievements in hair, fiber research, or related fields
Candidates for the Emerging Talent Award should hold at least a master’s degree in a relevant discipline

Expert location

Accepting applications from experts based in all countries

What we can offer you

Gift/award

The main prize is awarded €10,000, while the Emerging Talent Award winner receives €5,000.

Expertise

Awardees will receive the opportunity of a mentorship from Henkel scientists.

Networking

Awardees will join a growing international community of hair science researchers. Past applicants and winners have become integral members of this network, fostering valuable scientific exchange and collaboration. By recognizing both established experts and emerging talent, we offer female scientists at all career stages the opportunity to join and contribute to our growing network.

Exposure

In addition to receiving a financial award and the opportunity of a mentorship from Henkel scientists, the winners will be invited to an award ceremony held in conjunction with a scientific conference of the growing Martha Schwarzkopf network. This event will take place in Germany, most likely at the beginning of 2026.

Q&A with Henkel

The Q&A is now closed.

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Is the deadline extended or it asks for another round application?

Fatema Tarannum, Postdoctoral Scientist, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville

June 4, 2025

Dear Mrs. Tarannum, thank you for your question. The deadline has been extended until July 15th, 2025.

Jessica Welzel, Manager R&D, Henkel

June 17, 2025

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For the motivation letter section, what non-confidential documents can I upload to support my response? Is it okay to include a reference letter from my supervisor?

Poushali Das, Postdoctoral Scientist, McMaster University

May 29, 2025

Dear Mrs Das, Ideally, the motivation letter should be a personal statement outlining your drivers and commitment for your scientific career. It should highlight why your work and actions are in line with the ambitions of the Martha Schwarzkopf Award.

Jessica Welzel, Manager R&D, Henkel

May 30, 2025

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View the details of this request and connect directly with corporate R&D teams at Fortune 500 companies.

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Seeking partners focused on

AgingAnalytical ChemistryArtificial IntelligenceBilayersBiochemistryBioinformaticsBiological ComplexityBiological Fluid DynamicsBiological OpticsBiomechanics

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