This belief lies at the heart of the HUL Women in STEM Fellowship, an initiative designed to support exceptional women researchers pursuing doctoral studies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Through financial support, mentorship and access to a thriving scientific ecosystem, the Fellowship aims to help women researchers advance pioneering work in areas that matter deeply to India's future and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Today, we are proud to celebrate two Fellows whose recent achievements demonstrate the transformative impact of investing in scientific talent.
Advancing healthcare innovation through breakthrough research
For Rashmita Luha, curiosity and scientific rigour have translated into research that could help address one of India's significant healthcare challenges.
Her pioneering work on a novel ultrasound-based approach to selectively target oral cancer cells has received national recognition, highlighting the potential of cutting-edge science to create new pathways for disease treatment. The research demonstrates how innovative thinking can contribute towards solving complex health challenges and improving lives.
Rashmita's achievement reflects the power of sustained scientific inquiry and serves as an inspiration for young researchers looking to make meaningful contributions through science.
Taking Indian research to the global stage
Scientific excellence knows no boundaries, and Disha Kshirsagar's journey is a testament to that.
Disha's work in cancer immunotherapy has earned international recognition through the prestigious Carl Storm Fellowship from Gordon Research Conferences, USA. Her accomplishment underscores the growing global impact of Indian scientific research and showcases how promising researchers can amplify their contributions when supported by strong academic and mentorship networks.
Her success demonstrates how access to the right opportunities, exposure and guidance can help emerging scientists extend their influence well beyond national borders.
Building pathways for the next generation
The achievements of Rashmita and Disha are individual milestones, but they also represent something larger: the immense potential that exists when talent is matched with opportunity.
Since launching the HUL Women in STEM Fellowship, we have continued to invest in creating pathways for women scientists to pursue ambitious research careers. Beyond financial support, Fellows benefit from mentorship by senior leaders from HUL, Unilever and the wider scientific community, helping them navigate their professional journeys while building connections that can accelerate their growth.
As a company deeply committed to India's progress, HUL believes that scientific innovation will play a critical role in addressing some of the country's most pressing challenges across health, hygiene, sustainability, climate action and quality of life. Supporting the next generation of researchers is therefore not only an investment in talent, but also an investment in India's future.
At HUL, we are committed to enabling women scientists to pursue bold ideas and advance impactful research. Through the HUL Women in STEM Fellowship, we offer mentorship, guidance, and access to a supportive scientific ecosystem. Rashmita and Disha's achievements show what is possible when talent is nurtured with the right opportunities. We are proud to celebrate their success and look forward to the impact they will continue to create for science and society.
Vibhav Sanzgiri, Chief R&D Officer and Executive Director, R&D
