Brazil Pushes Forward with Major 2026 Initiatives Promoting Women in Science
Major science events and scholarship programs in Brazil are spotlighting women's contributions and promoting gender equity in scientific fields throughout 2026.
- • IX Porteirinha TechDay (Oct 7-9, 2026) focuses on women scientists under theme 'Ciência Delas'.
- • L'Oréal-UNESCO-ABC program offers R$50,000 scholarships to women in science; applications due Aug 8, 2026.
- • 4th Brazilian Meeting of Science Communicators scheduled for Sept 5-7, 2026 in São Paulo.
- • Additional initiatives include Prêmio Jovem Cientista and Mercosul Prize promoting science and climate change solutions.
Key details
Brazil is advancing its agenda to elevate women in science with several prominent events and programs announced for late 2026. Central among these is the IX Porteirinha TechDay at the IFNMG Campus Porteirinha, taking place October 7-9 as part of the National Science and Technology Week. The event’s theme, 'Ciência Delas,' celebrates Brazilian women scientists who have made significant contributions despite systemic barriers.
The TechDay will feature lectures, scientific exhibitions, cultural activities, and workshops, all free of charge with certificates provided to participants. Luciana Santos, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, highlighted the need to focus on women and girls in science, especially from marginalized communities, emphasizing their valuable but underrecognized role.
Earlier, from September 5-7, the 4th Brazilian Meeting of Science Communicators (EBDC) will be held in São Paulo under the theme 'Sul como Centro.' This event aims to enrich science communication strategies nationwide, fostering collaboration among communicators, journalists, and researchers.
In parallel, scholarship programs are actively supporting women researchers. Applications are open until August 8, 2026, for the 21st L'Oréal-UNESCO-ABC program, which awards R$50,000 scholarships to eight women in Life Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Notably, the program now welcomes candidates who are mothers, reflecting broader inclusivity.
Other science promotion efforts include the Prêmio Jovem Cientista with a focus on artificial intelligence for the common good, and the 2025 Mercosul Prize in Science and Technology prioritizing food security amid climate change, with R$200,000 awarded across categories.
The Federal University of Uberlândia has also contributed by publishing 'Comunica Ciência,' a guide on using social media and podcasts for science dissemination, while Fiocruz has released 'O Público Infantil,' a study on science communication aimed at children.
Collectively, these initiatives illustrate Brazil's comprehensive commitment to advancing women in science through education, research support, and effective dissemination of knowledge.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
