Research in Portugal
Unlocking New Possibilities
Portugal leads in marine sciences, renewable energy, health, and digital technologies, powered by global partnerships and a strong national research ecosystem. Whether you’re a PhD student, postdoc, or established researcher, the country offers top infrastructure and strong international ties in a supportive setting.
Are you ready to take the next step?
As of 2025, Portugal has...
Portugal’s Research
Landscape
Portugal’s research ecosystem is built around a dynamic network of research units, laboratories, and Clinical academic centers. The Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) is the national public agency that supports research in science, technology, and innovation in all areas of knowledge.
R&D Units
Thematic research groups based in universities and polytechnics. These units are evaluated and funded by FCT and form the foundation of most academic research in Portugal.
Associate Laboratories (LA)
Networks of top-performing R&D units that address national science and technology priorities. They receive dedicated funding to support public missions and doctoral training.
Collaborative Laboratories (CoLABs)
Public-private partnerships that bridge academic research and industrial or societal challenges — such as energy, digital innovation, and health.
Public Research Institutes
Specialized national institutes like INSA (health), INIAV (agriculture), and IPMA (marine and atmospheric sciences) that conduct mission-driven research aligned with public policy.
Get additional details about R&D Units, LA, CoLABs, and CACs that form Portugal’s scientific landscape.
Visit FCT
Career and Funding
Opportunities
FCT Support
FCT supports the scientific community in Portugal through funding programs for researchers, teams, and R&D centers, promoting advanced training and interaction with the global scientific ecosystem.
Studentships
FCT awards and manages studentships in all scientific fields, focusing on doctoral training and short-term advanced programs. It is the primary gateway for advanced training and qualification of new researchers.
Scientific Employment
An incentive for hiring PhD holders into R&D units. This program promotes international networks and collaborations, allowing researchers to develop career plans within public or private institutions.
R&D Projects
Funding for projects carried out by research teams across all areas. These grants support access to research infrastructure, science communication, and increased interaction with companies and industry.
Learn more about how FCT supports the scientific community in Portugal and discover the financing programs available.
Discover FCTGet Inspired by
Real Experiences
Real Experiences
Akiko Kikuchi
PhD student
UCP
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PhD student/ researcher
IPPortalegre
Sebastian Sion
Master’s degree
UAlgarve
Yuko Kasę
PhD student/ teacher
UCP
Rafael Pinheiro
Researcher
IPLeiria
Discover Study & Research Opportunities in Portugal
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How to Apply
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Identify your opportunity
Look for research groups, supervisors, or institutions aligned with your interests, and contact the relevant coordinators to express your interest. You can also use the FCT directory or browse EURAXESS job offers to find opportunities.
Apply for funding or a position
You may also explore open calls for fellowships, research contracts, and project-based positions across Portugal’s R&D ecosystem.
Prepare your documentation
If you are coming from outside the EU, apply for a researcher visa (typically the D3). Be ready to present proof of all academic qualifications, including a CV and a research proposal. Once admitted, your institution will guide you through the final enrolment and registration procedures.
Contact a Welcome Office
Universities and research centers offer support with housing, healthcare, schooling for children, and more.
Most PhD studentships are awarded annually by FCT, and cover all scientific fields. FCT also opens targeted funding calls that focus on specific areas or profiles. Learn more about Doctoral Studentships here.
Additional PhD scholarships offered by Portuguese institutions are available on the EURAXESS portal.
PhD holders interested in pursuing scientific research or technological development in Portugal may apply for funding through the Scientific Employment Stimulus programme, which supports the integration of researchers into FCT-funded R&D units. Researchers with a PhD can also apply directly for positions at Portuguese research institutions. Additional research job opportunities published by Portuguese institutions can be found on the EURAXESS portal.
