The International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies (IULTCS) has launched the 2026 Young Leather Scientist Grant Program, aimed at supporting early-career researchers in leather science. The program offers awards in three categories, providing financial support and an opportunity to present at an upcoming IULTCS Congress.
The International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies (IULTCS) has announced the opening of applications for the Young Leather Scientist Grant Program (YLSG) 2026, designed to foster global collaboration and innovation in leather science. Managed by the IUR Commission of IULTCS, the program will reward early-career researchers across three distinct categories.
Award Categories and Sponsors:
- Fundamental Leather Research – €1,500 (Sponsor: to be announced)
Research on collagen and leather, development of analytical (chemical) methods, innovations in leather processing or chemicals, and preservation of hides and skins. - Prof. Mike Redwood Sustainability/Environmental Research – €1,000 (Sponsor: Leather Naturally)
New environmental technologies (e.g., wastewater, solid waste, emissions), sustainable tanning and processing, tannery waste management, and eco-friendly chemicals to reduce carbon and water footprints. - Machinery and Digitalization Solutions – €1,000 (Sponsor: Italprogetti)
Development of new leather processing machinery, process optimization, digitalization, automation, and equipment for analytical or quality control applications.
Eligibility:
- Must be under 35 years old at the time of application
- Student at a university or leather school, or early-career researcher
- Requires an academic advisor
- Research must be unpublished at submission date
Applications should be submitted as a single PDF including: completed application form, research project description (max. 3 pages), CVs of applicant and advisor, and a recommendation letter from the advisor. Submissions should be sent to Dr. Volker Rabe at volker.rabe@tfl.com.
Selection Criteria:
Applications will be evaluated based on clarity and relevance of objectives, scientific methodology, innovation, industry impact, and qualifications of the applicant and advisor. Winners will be selected by an international panel of leather science experts.
Timeline:
- 1 September 2025 – Call for Applications Opens
- 30 November 2025 – Application Deadline
- 30 January 2026 – Winners Announced
- 15 February 2026 – Award Payment & Certificates
Winners will present their projects at an upcoming IULTCS Congress and must submit a final report by 28 February 2027. Reports will be published on the IULTCS/IUR website along with the advisor’s evaluation.
