A call is hereby open for the award of one (1) Research Fellowship for Bachelor’s Degree Holders, within the scope of the project “INSUBIO”, reference 0604020126, funded by Santander Foundation / NOVA University of Lisbon (UNL).
1. Scientific Area
Materials Engineering and Nanotechnology.
2. Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Micro and Nanotechnologies Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related areas*;
- Enrolment in a Master’s programme or a non-degree course in the specific scientific area of the work plan, namely in biosensor fabrication processes using laser processing technologies for insulin monitoring.
* Applicants who obtained their degree abroad must have it recognised and the final classification converted to the Portuguese grading scale, in accordance with Decree-Law no. 66/2018 of 16 August.
If, at the time of application, candidates do not yet hold degree recognition in Portugal, they must submit a sworn statement declaring that the document will be provided by the contract signature phase (statement attached to this Call).
3. Preferential Criteria
Preference will be given to candidates who are available to start activities at CENIMAT|I3N within a maximum period of 30 days from the communication of the final results of the call. Such availability must be explicitly stated in the motivation letter.
4. Work Plan
The fellow will carry out the following activities:
Optimisation of laser fabrication processes for the synthesis of conductive carbon materials, based on process–property enhancement approaches, for biosensor development. Fabrication, characterisation and optimisation of electrochemical biosensors (immunosensors), including surface modification, bio-functionalisation with recognition elements and iterative testing using standards. Support for the development of sensor system integration solutions, as well as their validation, in collaboration with another project partner (NMS). Support for laboratory-scale prototype development using the materials and devices produced. Participation in regular project meetings, preparation of periodic technical-scientific reports and presentations related to the above topics, and thesis/scientific publication writing.
5. Applicable Legislation
- Statute of the Research Fellow (Law no. 40/2004 of 18 August, as amended);
- NOVA University of Lisbon Research Fellowship Regulations (Order no. 9484/2023).
6. Place of Work
The work will be carried out at the Centre for Materials Research (CENIMAT|I3N) of the NOVA School of Science and Technology (NOVA FCT), under the scientific supervision of Dr Tomás Pinheiro.
7. Duration and Start Date
- Duration: up to 4 months, with an expected start in February 2026;
- The fellowship may be renewed during the project’s duration and in accordance with the applicable regulations (see point 5).
8. Monthly Maintenance Allowance
- Monthly amount: €1,040.98, in accordance with the current FCT fellowship table;
- Payment will be made by bank transfer.
9. Selection Methods
The selection procedures will include:
- Curriculum Vitae [85%] – assessment of the candidate’s scientific background, including proven previous experience in the area referred to in point 2. Publications, presentations, awards and any other relevant elements will be valued, taking into account the requirements and work plan of this call;
- Motivation Letter [15%] – assessment of the candidate’s interest in the activities to be carried out and the quality of written communication.
If deemed necessary by the jury, an interview may be conducted. In such case, the weighting will be as follows:
Curriculum Vitae [68%]; Motivation Letter [12%]; Interview [20%].
10. Selection Panel
The selection panel is composed of the following members, all from NOVA School of Science and Technology:
- Chair: Professor Elvira Fortunato, Full Professor;
- 1st Effective Member: Dr Tomás Pinheiro, Junior Researcher;
- 2nd Effective Member: Dr Henrique Vazão de Almeida, Junior Researcher.
11. Application Deadline and Submission
- The call is open from 19 January 2026 to 27 January 2026.
Applications must be submitted by email to the Human Resources Division:
📧 drh.bolsas@fct.unl.pt
Subject:Application for Research Fellowship – Ref. “INSUBIO – Lic1_2026”
Mandatory documents:
- Curriculum Vitae;
- Motivation letter;
- Academic degree certificate*;
- Proof of enrolment in an eligible course*;
- Other relevant documents.
* Supporting documents may be submitted no later than the fellowship contract signature phase and may, until then, be replaced by a sworn statement, in accordance with point 2 of this Call.
12. Results
- Results will be communicated by email within 15 working days after the application deadline;
- The right to a prior hearing will be guaranteed (10 working days);
- The final decision will be notified to all applicants and may be subject to complaint (15 working days) or appeal (10 working days), under the terms of the Portuguese Code of Administrative Procedure.
Please consult the call here: NOTICE