FCT-PRISC-UFRJ Doctoral Research Grants - 2026
Four PhD research grants bridging Portuguese universities and the National Museum of Rio de Janeiro across anthropology, biodiversity, and science history.
Best for:Best for master's degree holders in anthropology, archaeology, biodiversity, or history of science seeking an international cotutelle-style doctoral fellowship.
Overview
The scientific infrastructure PRISC, in collaboration with the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, invites applications for four PhD research grants funded by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT). Successful candidates will conduct mixed-model doctoral research split between a PRISC university in Portugal and the National Museum in Rio de Janeiro for a minimum of 12 months. The research areas cover anthropology, archaeology, geodiversity, paleodiversiy, biodiversity, science communication, and history of science. Applicants are expected to submit a comprehensive work plan, secure host supervisors from both institutions, and successfully complete their doctoral studies.
What you'll do
- Conduct original doctoral research within approved scientific collections and museum contexts
- Split research time between a PRISC institution in Portugal and the National Museum of Rio de Janeiro for 12 to 24 months
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed academic venues and present at scientific conferences
- Collaborate with international research teams across participating Portuguese and Brazilian universities
- Fulfill all doctoral milestone requirements and maintain annual progress reports
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, Geodiversity, Biodiversity, History of Science, Science Communication, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: Portuguese or English proficiency for application materials and interviews
Instruction: Portuguese and English
- Demonstrated academic background in relevant scientific disciplines
- Ability to formulate a detailed 3000-word research work plan with risk analysis and timeline
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in Portuguese or English
- Secured acceptance letters from prospective supervisors at both a PRISC institution and the National Museum of Rio de Janeiro
- Open to national citizens, EU member state citizens, third-country nationals, stateless persons, and political refugees
- Must reside permanently and habitually in Portugal at the start of the foreign work plan period
- Must not have previously benefited from a direct FCT-funded PhD or corporate PhD grant
- Must not already hold a doctoral degree
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-19 (Europe/Lisbon)
Prepare all required documentation including academic certificates, CV, motivation letter, detailed work plan, and supervisor acceptance letters. Submit the complete application package electronically via email to the designated address before the deadline.
- Civil identification document
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic degree certificates
- Motivation letter
- Two reference letters
- Work plan
- Supervisor acceptance letters
Contact
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