Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Rigor, innovation, and global impact

The PhD Program in Mechanical Engineering at NOVA FCT, running since 2009/2010, is aligned with the principles of the European Higher Education Area, ensuring high standards of quality and academic rigor. With a minimum duration of three years and a total of 180 credits, this program aims to train highly qualified PhD graduates, prepared to tackle the challenges of research and technological innovation.

Why this PhD Programme?

  • Advanced training in scientific fields of Mechanical Engineering.
  • Development of solid research skills and methodologies.
  • Ability to critically analyze and synthesize innovative and complex ideas.
  • Contribution to scientific and technological progress and to the expansion of knowledge through original research.
  • Dissemination of results in prestigious national and international scientific publications.
  • Effective communication with the academic community and with society.
  • Preparation to operate in a constantly evolving world, playing an active role in technological and cultural transformation.
  • Research supported by excellent laboratory facilities and by research centers of recognized national and international excellence (UNIDEMI).

Applications 2025/26

1st Phase: 14 Mar. to 7 Apr.

2nd Phase: 2 Jun. to 18 Jul.

Vacancies: 10

Duration: 3 years (180 ECTS)

Format: On-site

Language: Portuguese

DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS?

Course Coordinator: Telmo Santos, pdem.coordenador@fct.unl.pt

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

I want to apply:

Program

The program follows the principles of the European Higher Education Area, promoting academic excellence and high standards of quality.

Curriculum

Career opportunities

Research and Higher Education:

  • Researcher in national and international R&D centers
  • University lecturer in Mechanical Engineering and related fields

Industry and Technology:

  • Development and innovation engineer in technology-based companies
  • Specialist in the design, optimization, production, and maintenance of mechanical systems
  • Engineer in the automotive, aerospace, naval, or energy industries

Management and Consulting:

  • Leader of industrial research and innovation departments
  • Consultant in Mechanical Engineering and industrial innovation
  • Project manager in technological and industrial sectors

Sustainability and Renewable Energy:

  • Specialist in energy efficiency and sustainable development
  • Engineer in renewable energy (wind, solar, hydro)

Entrepreneurship and Startups:

  • Founder of technology and mechanical engineering companies
  • Developer of new products and innovative solutions

About the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering

The Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (DEMI) is a permanent organic unit of NOVA FCT, dedicated to teaching, fundamental and applied scientific research, and the provision of services in the fields of Industrial Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

More info