L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science 2025 Honors Four Women Scientists

L’Oréal reaffirms its commitment to advancing women’s contribution to science through the L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science (FWIS) program in Indonesia, in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia. For over 22 years, the program has consistently recognized and supported Indonesian women scientists who are making significant contributions to the nation’s scientific and social progress.

Prof. Stella Christie, Vice Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, stated “Scientific evidence clearly shows that women possess the same capabilities as men in science and mathematics. However, gender gaps remain, in employment opportunities, salary disparities, and representation in STEM. Increasing women’s participation in science is not only an issue of equality but also of economic development. A nation loses when it does not harness the full potential of its best talents. In line with L’Oréal’s initiative, we continue to promote the importance of women’s roles in research and innovation through programs such as ‘Science for Women and Women for Science’ and those under the Directorate of Science and Technology Dissemination.”

Prof. Stella Christie further highlighted three essential principles for women to thrive and contribute meaningfully: self-confidence, the courage to seize opportunities and persevere, and staying true to themselves by doing what they love.

According to UNESCO’s 2025 report, women account for 43.5% of researchers in Indonesia. Continued efforts are needed to achieve full gender equality in research. The FWIS program provides recognition through research funding, global networking, and support for women scientists who are developing innovative solutions to address real-world challenges.

Benjamin Rachow, President Director L'Oréal Indonesia said “Research and innovation are at the heart of L’Oréal. Guided by our mission to create beauty that moves the world, we believe that science gives meaning to our work and brings positive impact to society. From product innovation to programs that meet real human needs. Through the FWIS program, we empower women scientists to bring impactful science to life, providing access to collaboration networks and opportunities for them to shine. Because the world needs science, and science needs women.”

For more than 22 years in Indonesia, 79 women scientists have received support to contribute across various fields of science, creating a multiplier effect that inspires a new generation of women scientists throughout the country. This year, four women scientists have been selected as the 2025 FWIS Fellows, each receiving a total research grant of IDR 400,000,000 and the opportunity to connect with the world’s largest community of women scientists.

COLLABORATION AND IMPACT: THE CENTRAL THEME OF FWIS 2025

This year’s program saw a remarkable increase in participation, with more than twice as many submissions compared to previous year, with hundreds of research proposals submitted from universities and research institutions across Indonesia. Notably, 70% of the applicants were women scientists under the age of 40, reflecting a growing sense of confidence and aspiration among Indonesian women to contribute through science and innovation.

Prof. dr. Herawati Sudoyo, MD., Ph.D., Head of Judging Team FWIS remarked, “FWIS is a prestigious and highly sought-after recognition among women scientists, not only for emerging researchers but also for those with long-standing careers in their fields. This year is particularly remarkable, with nearly 150 applicants, the highest in the past five years, coming from regions as diverse as West Papua, Sumatra, and even Asia and Europe. Beyond their scientific merit, the selected fellows have demonstrated a strong track record and clear potential for collaboration, because without collaboration, research can hardly come to fruition.”

The majority of the submitted research proposals are rooted in Indonesia’s local potential and biodiversity, ranging from developing native plants into high-value active ingredients to innovating waste management into sustainable resources. Researchers are also encouraged to collaborate by combining multidisciplinary approaches, integrating life sciences with material sciences and advanced technologies to address real challenges faced by society.

Melanie Masriel, Chief of Corporate Affairs, Engagement, and Sustainability PT L’Oréal Indonesia added “Within the FWIS community, collaboration among scientists is not just encouraged, it is part of the culture. FWIS alumni actively engage in scientific discussions, share research opportunities, and build partnerships across disciplines, from life sciences to technology. These interactions spark new ideas and make research more applicable and impactful. Through this network, FWIS Fellows find potential partners and grow together across scientific fields.”

FOUR WOMEN SCIENTISTS DRIVING SCIENCE WITH IMPACT

This year, four outstanding scientists were selected as FWIS 2025 Fellows for their innovative and solution-oriented research that addresses Indonesia’s critical challenges in biotechnology, health, and sustainability.

Dr. Maria Apriliani Gani

Development of a Cellular Model for Osteoporosis Therapy Based on Indonesian Medicinal Plants

A lecturer and researcher at the School of Pharmacy, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Dr. Gani is developing a cellular model that simulates oxidative stress-induced osteoporosis to accelerate the discovery of plant-based anti-osteoporosis drugs. Her approach enables the screening of compounds that can simultaneously stimulate bone formation and suppress bone loss, without animal testing. In collaboration with researchers from the University of Indonesia, her research supports the scientification of traditional medicine, aligns with the global non-animal testing movement, and aims to improve the quality of life for elderly women at risk of osteoporosis.

Dr.rer.nat. Lutviasari Nuraini

Biodegradable Magnesium-Based Implant Materials for Bone Regeneration

A researcher at the Research Center for Metallurgy, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Dr. Nuraini is developing a Magnesium–Zinc–Neodymium (Mg–Zn–Nd) alloy for biodegradable bone implants that naturally dissolve after healing. By incorporating the rare earth element Neodymium, her research enhances mechanical strength and controls degradation rates, ensuring implant stability during recovery. This innovation supports Indonesia’s self-reliance in implant production and contributes to the industrial downstreaming of natural resources through cross-disciplinary collaboration between BRIN and universities.

Anak Agung Dewi Megawati, Ph.D.

Broad-Spectrum mRNA Antiviral Therapy for Mosquito-Borne Diseases

A lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Warmadewa University, Dr. Megawati is developing an innovative mRNA-based broad-spectrum antiviral therapy capable of targeting dengue and other mosquito-borne viruses. Her research represents a breakthrough in tropical infectious disease control and establishes a new therapeutic platform for viral illnesses. Through collaboration with UC Davis, the research also strengthens Indonesia’s biomedical research capabilities and positions Indonesian women scientists as active contributors on the global biotechnology stage.

Helen Julian, Ph.D.
Transforming Palm Oil Waste into High-Value Resources

A lecturer in Chemical and Food Engineering at the Faculty of Industrial Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Dr. Julian is developing an integrated Membrane Photobioreactor–Nanofiltration (MPBR–NF) system to convert palm oil mill effluent (POME) into valuable resources. By using microalgae to process wastewater and produce biomass for bioenergy and food applications, her work enhances wastewater quality while supporting circular economy and bio-based sustainability principles. The research, conducted in collaboration with BRIN and international university partners, strengthens Indonesia’s multi-disciplinary expertise in sustainable waste management.

During the ceremony, His Excellency Fabien Penone, Ambassador of France to Indonesia, Timor Leste, and ASEAN, expressed his appreciation: “France believes that science and diversity go hand in hand. For over two decades in Indonesia, the For Women in Science program has supported young women in pursuing their scientific dreams, breaking boundaries, and becoming leaders in their fields. This vision aligns with France’s diplomatic commitment to gender equality as the foundation of a fair, sustainable, and inclusive society. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all awardees, and sincere appreciation to L’Oréal Indonesia for its continuous commitment to gender equality, scientific excellence, and international cooperation”.

Since its inception, the L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science program has been more than an award, it is a global empowerment platform. With a network of over 4,700 women scientists worldwide, FWIS fosters collaboration across disciplines and nations, enabling women scientists to grow their careers and amplify their impact.

Beyond recognition, FWIS 2025 represents empowerment in action, a platform that nurtures research, collaboration, and mentorship among women scientists. Today, FWIS alumni not only continue their research but also mentor over 1,400 young researchers, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the future of Indonesian science.

“Going forward, FWIS will continue to be a platform where women scientists can grow, connect, and inspire the next generation of researchers,” concluded Melanie.