Henkel opens application phase for the next edition of the Martha Schwarzkopf Award for Women in Science

Henkel is proud to announce the opening of applications for the fifth edition of the Martha Schwarzkopf Award for Women in Science. This international award honors women scientists whose groundbreaking research advances the field of hair and fiber science. The application phase opens on May 29, marking the birth month of Martha Schwarzkopf.

Honoring Martha Schwarzkopf’s Legacy

The award pays tribute to Martha Schwarzkopf, a true pioneer who was one of the first woman in Germany to lead a company and the visionary founder of the Institute for Hair Research. Today, Schwarzkopf is Henkel’s largest consumer brand in the hair category. Its technological innovations are deeply rooted in the rich legacy of the Schwarzkopf Hair Research Institute, which has grown into a global network of research and development laboratories, hair test salons and hair academies – all dedicated to advancing hair science worldwide.

“Inspired by the UN International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the Martha Schwarzkopf Award honors outstanding female scientists whose research shapes the future of hair care. It reflects Henkel’s belief that strong science is the foundation of truly superior beauty products”, says Frank Meyer, Senior Vice President Global R&D at Henkel Consumer Brands. As Henkel is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, the same pioneering spirit continues to inspire the company’s path forward. Initiatives like the Martha Schwarzkopf Award reflect Henkel’s ongoing commitment to shape progress with purpose.

Building a Global Network of Experts

"We are proud to continuously expand our network of hair researchers”, says Jessica Welzel, Manager R&D Hair Science at Henkel Consumer Brands and chair of the Martha Schwarzkopf Award jury. “The applicants and award winners from previous years have become integral members of this community, and the scientific exchange and collaboration with them greatly enrich our work. By presenting the main award for long-term contributions and the Emerging Talent Award, we offer both established female scientists and promising young researchers the opportunity to join and contribute to this growing network.”

How to apply

The Martha Schwarzkopf Award welcomes applications from female scientists with their research achievements in hair, fiber and related scientific fields, including – but not limited to – natural, material, and cosmetic sciences, biotechnology and protein science, hair dye and pigment research, mechanical engineering and physics of fibers, computer science, modeling, and simulation, medicine and biological sciences related to hair and scalp.

Applications are welcome from both established scientists and emerging talents who demonstrate a strong scientific track record and significant achievements. All submissions will be evaluated holistically, enabling the jury to recognize excellence across a broad range of scientific fields.

Application period & process

Interested candidates are invited to submit the required application documents in English until August 15, 2026 via email to RnD.Award@henkel.com. Applicants from North America will not be considered.

Letter of motivation
Short curriculum vitae
List of key publications
Summary of relevant publicly available research
Application photo ‏(optional)

Award recipients will gain international scientific recognition and receive a financial award, as well as opportunities for scientific exchange, mentorship and collaboration. In addition, they will be invited to attend the Martha Schwarzkopf Award Ceremony, held in conjunction with a scientific event of the growing Martha Schwarzkopf network in Germany in summer 2027.