Education

PhD in History, Philosophy and Heritage of Science and Technology

Challenging the Past, Shaping the Future

The PhD in History, Philosophy, and Heritage of Science and Technology is a program of excellence aimed at training researchers specialized in the historical and critical analysis of science and technology. With an interdisciplinary approach, the course offers in-depth training on the history of scientific ideas and technological transformations, with a strong emphasis on their social, cultural, and political impact.

The program also explores scientific and technological heritage, enabling doctoral students to analyze, preserve, and disseminate the national and global scientific legacy.

This PhD is designed for those who wish to integrate the historical, philosophical, and heritage dimensions of science and technology, with the goal of promoting knowledge and enhancing the value of scientific heritage, while contributing to the future of research in this field.

Why this PhD Programme?

  • Critical and Interdisciplinary Perspective on Science and Technology – This PhD program offers a unique approach that combines history, philosophy, and sociology of science and technology, enabling doctoral students to develop a critical analysis of the impact of scientific innovation on society. This interdisciplinary perspective provides a deeper understanding of the processes that shape scientific and technological knowledge.
  • Preservation and Enhancement of Scientific Heritage – Students will have the opportunity to study and preserve scientific heritage, with a particular focus on the history and philosophy of science and technology in Portugal and Europe.
  • Contribution to the Development of Scientific Thought – Through innovative projects, doctoral candidates can explore contemporary issues that reflect on the role of science and technology in society.
  • Integration into International Research Networks – Doctoral students are integrated into global research networks, working in collaboration with prestigious institutions. This integration offers opportunities to expand research internationally and enrich academic work with new approaches and perspectives.
  • Careers in Diverse Fields – Graduates of this PhD program are well prepared to pursue academic or professional careers in cultural institutions, museums, archives, and research centers. The training provided opens pathways for the preservation and promotion of scientific heritage, a field of growing relevance today.

Applications 2025/26

1st Phase: Mar 14 to Apr. 7

2nd Phase: Jun. 2 to Jul. 18

Vacancies: 15

Duration: 4 years (240 ECTS)

Format: In-person, Daytime

Language: Portuguese

DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS?

Course Coordinator: Paula Urze, pdhfpct.coordenador@fct

Academic divison: div.aea.helpdesk@fct.unl.pt

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Program

The PhD program in History, Philosophy, and Heritage of Science and Technology offers a robust and interdisciplinary education, addressing core topics such as Philosophy of Science, History of Science and Technology, and Scientific and Technological Heritage.

Curriculum

Career opportunities

  • Research
  • Qualification of primary and secondary school teachers
  • Advanced training for local government staff, through the development of skills for assessing local scientific, technological, and industrial heritage and its potential for conservation

About the Department of Applied Social Sciences

The Department of Applied Social Sciences (DCSA) at NOVA FCT provides teaching and research in areas outside of the fundamental sciences and engineering, thus offering our students a structured education in the field of applied social sciences.

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