The 14^th L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards Ceremony, presided by Professor Günter Blobel, Nobel Prize in Medicine 1999, took place on Thursday night at UNESCO headquarters.

Five exceptional women scientists who contribute to resolving major global challenges were distinguished by the awards, presented by Irina Bokova, Director General of UNESCO and Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones, Chairman of the L'Oréal Corporate Foundation.

Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, commented, "In order to meet the challenges of the future, we must encourage science and women's potential."

Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones, Chairman of the L'Oréal Corporate Foundation reaffirmed, "This award has changed the lives of numerous scientific women. In becoming emblematic of the ethical commitment of our company, this program has inspired and motivated us all."