Organisations in China have launched an award to honour the contributions made by women to the development of science and technology the country. The Chinese Young Women in Science Fellowship, announced last week in Beijing, is the first Chinese award for female researchers.

Four women scientists will be awarded a 100,00 yuan (US$12,048) grant every year for the next four years. In an effort to help boost development of western China, one recipient per year will be from that region. Categories will change each year. This year's winners will be rewarded for their contributions in the life sciences.

The award was created by the All China Women's Federation, the China Association for Science and Technology, and the China National Committee of UNESCO. It is sponsored by L'Oreal China and is an extension of the L'Oreal-UNESCO for Women in Science Partnership, which began in 1999.

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