Geology is essential for the sustainable exploration of natural resources, the mitigation of geological risks, the development of resilient infrastructures, the research of geological solutions for the energy transition, and the promotion of geological heritage. The PhD in Geology equips professionals to tackle these challenges by combining advanced training with scientific and technological innovation. It also enables access to teaching, particularly in higher education, as well as to fundamental and applied research.
This program stands out for its integrated approach and the use of experimental and computational methodologies applied to Earth Sciences areas, such as the characterization of geological resources, modeling of dynamic processes, paleontology, and sedimentary basin dynamics. Its strong connection to national and international research centers fosters a dynamic and creative scientific environment, encouraging collaborative networks and access to top-tier infrastructures.
By training highly qualified specialists, this PhD contributes to the advancement of knowledge and innovation, preparing students to lead distinctive scientific and technological projects.
Applications 2025/26
1st Phase: Mar. 14 to Abr. 7
2nd Phase: Jun. 2 to Jul. 18
Vacancies: 10
Duration: 4 years (240 ECTS)
Format: Daytime/in-person.
Language: Portuguese/English.
Course Coordinator: José António de Almeida, pdg.coordenador@fct.unl.pt
Academic divison: div.aea.helpdesk@fct.unl.pt
With a demanding curriculum focused on research, this programme fosters scientific autonomy, critical thinking, and analytical skills, as well as mastery of advanced methodologies. Its connection to leading research centres enables doctoral students to develop cutting-edge projects, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and to economic and social development.
Throughout the programme, students deepen their understanding of fundamental geological processes, gaining the skills needed to lead innovative projects and effectively communicate scientific findings to diverse audiences.
PhD graduates in Geology are prepared to work in a wide range of fields, including:
Applicants to the doctoral programme must meet the admission requirements set out in the General Regulations for Doctoral Programmes at NOVA FCT.
Additionally, candidates must fulfil at least one of the following conditions:
a) Hold a Master's degree in the scientific field of Earth Sciences, or legally equivalent qualification. Candidates must have obtained a minimum final grade of 14 (out of 20) in these study cycles.
b) Hold a Bachelor's degree in Earth Sciences and present an especially relevant academic or scientific curriculum, recognized by the Scientific Council of NOVA FCT as demonstrating the ability to undertake this programme.
c) Hold an academic, scientific or professional curriculum in the field of Earth Sciences that is recognized by the Scientific Council of NOVA FCT, upon proposal by the Department Council of the Department of Earth Sciences (DCT), as demonstrating the ability to undertake this programme.
The recognition referred to in points b) and c) will be based on opinions issued by two PhD-level professors or researchers, considered experts in the scientific field in question and appointed by the Scientific Committee of the doctoral programme.
The selection of candidates is the responsibility of the Doctoral Programme’s Scientific Committee, based on the evaluation of the submitted documentation. Candidates considered potentially eligible may be invited for an interview.
The Scientific Committee of the PhD Programme in Geology may also request the submission of additional documentation deemed relevant for the assessment of the application.
Tuition fee - Portuguese students: 2.750€/year
Tuition fee - Foreign students: 2.750€/year
The Department of Earth Sciences (DCT) at NOVA FCT constitutes a graduate, postgraduate and research teaching unit, currently organized into 3 scientific areas: Geology, Geological Engineering and Agroindustry.
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