Martha Schwarzkopf Award for women in science

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

Please note: Faculty and researchers interested in applying for these opportunities based on technologies developed or disclosed at Vanderbilt must submit their proposals through the CTTC.