The PhD in Biochemistry at NOVA FCT, launched in 2009/2010, is an innovative four-year program (240 ECTS) designed to train highly qualified professionals for scientific research and innovation in key areas of the Life Sciences.
The program covers specializations in Structural Biochemistry, Biophysics, Physical Biochemistry, and Biotechnology, offering a multidisciplinary education that combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical research experience.
Its core objective is to empower PhD students to conduct original, high-impact research while promoting the international dissemination of their results. With access to cutting-edge technologies and an excellent academic and scientific environment, the program prepares students to address global challenges in health, biotechnology, and fundamental biochemical sciences.
Multidisciplinary Training of Excellence – The program provides a solid foundation in key areas such as structural biochemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, and physical biochemistry, enabling an integrated and advanced approach to life sciences.
Development of Innovative Research – Focused on cutting-edge scientific research, the PhD program prepares students to design and carry out original projects, with a strong emphasis on scientific publications and innovative solutions with global impact.
Integration into a High-Quality Scientific Research Environment – Based at a prestigious institution, the program offers access to state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborations with international research centers, broadening scientific development opportunities.
International Career Opportunities – Throughout the PhD, students benefit from a network of scientific partnerships and publication opportunities, facilitating entry into the job market both in academia and in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and related industries.
Applications 2025/26
1st Phase: 14th Mar. to 7th Apr.
2nd Phase: 2nd Jun. to 18th Jul.
Vacancies: 10
Duration: 4 years (240 ECTS)
Format: Full-time, tutorial-based program
Language: English
Course Coordinator: Ricardo Franco, pdbq.coordenador@fct.unl.pt
Academic divison: div.aea.helpdesk@fct.unl.pt
The PhD in Biochemistry is structured over four years (240 ECTS), divided between coursework and research for the doctoral thesis. In the first year, students begin with the Thesis Project (30 ECTS), focusing on research initiation and the development of a scientific proposal.
The curricular component includes specialized modules in Structural Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biophysics, or Physical Biochemistry, along with elective courses tailored to the specific needs of each student.
In the following two years, the focus shifts to the Doctoral Thesis (180 ECTS), with students fully dedicated to conducting original research, culminating in the public defense of their work. The program combines scientific rigor and innovation, preparing PhD candidates to advance knowledge and develop cutting-edge scientific solutions in the field of biochemistry.
Applicants must meet at least one of the following conditions:
Hold a Master's degree, or legally equivalent qualification, in the relevant scientific field or a similar area, awarded by a Portuguese or foreign higher education institution legally recognized for this purpose;
Hold a Bachelor's degree and present an academic or scientific curriculum of particular relevance, recognized by the Scientific Council of NOVA FCT as demonstrating the ability to undertake this study cycle;
Hold an academic, scientific, or professional curriculum recognized by the Department and the Scientific Council of NOVA FCT as demonstrating the ability to undertake this study cycle.
The selection of candidates is the responsibility of the PhD Scientific Committee, based on the evaluation of the submitted documentation.
Candidates who meet the previously stated academic and curricular requirements will be selected and ranked according to their academic, scientific, and professional background. Potentially eligible candidates may be invited for an interview.
Tuition fee - Portuguese students: 2.750€/year
Tuition fee - Foreign students: 2.750€/year
The Department of Chemistry (DQ) is a teaching and research unit of NOVA FCT dedicated to the quality of teaching, the progress of research and the provision of specialised services to the community in the fundamental areas of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.
More info
