The PhD in Physics Engineering at NOVA FCT, established in 2009/2010, trains highly qualified specialists at the intersection of Experimental Physics and Engineering. Spanning four years (240 ECTS), the program provides a solid foundation for the development and use of scientific instrumentation, analytical equipment, and advanced technologies with real-world applications in demanding contexts.
The training focuses on the technological applications of physics in areas such as optics, metrology, radiation-matter interaction, nuclear technologies, and low-temperature physics. PhD candidates are prepared to operate in highly complex environments — from major scientific infrastructures like ITER or CERN, to tech companies that develop or use high-precision instruments for diagnostics, control, and material and process characterization.
Combining theory and practice, research and development, this PhD program promotes impactful technological innovation, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and addressing the needs of society and industry.
Applications 2025/26
1st Phase: 14 Mar. to 7 Apr.
2nd Phase: 2 Jun. to 18 Jul.
Vacancies: 6
Duration: 4 years (240 ECTS)
Format: On-site
Language: Portuguese/English
Course Coordinator: Orlando Teodoro , pdef.coordenador@fct.unl.pt
Academic divison: div.aea.helpdesk@fct.unl.pt
Aligned with the guiding principles and objectives underlying its integration into the European Higher Education Area, the program enables research in renowned centers of excellence..
PhD graduates in Engineering Physics are prepared to take on highly specialized and responsible roles in academia, industry, and major scientific infrastructures. Main career paths include:
Applicants must meet the admission requirements set out in the General Regulations for PhD Programs at NOVA FCT.
In addition, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria:
The selection of candidates is the responsibility of the PhD Scientific Committee, based on the evaluation of the submitted documentation. Potentially eligible candidates may be invited for an interview.
The Scientific Committee of the PhD program in Physics Engineering may request additional documentation from the candidate if deemed relevant for the evaluation of the application.
Tuition fee - Portuguese students: 2.750€/year
Tuition fee - Foreign students: 2.750€/year
Registration fee: 35€
The Department of Physics (DF), formally established in 1986, was a pioneer in Portugal in teaching Physics Engineering. The DF's scientific activity mainly develops in two Research Units, LIBPhys and CEFITEC. Among the research and development activities are atomic, molecular, nuclear physics instrumentation and electronic and industrial automation with applications in analytical methods, radiation detection, and biomedical engineering, optics, and photonics, metrology, and spectrometries.