Study in Portugal | Instituto Superior Técnico Research Scholarship 2026
A focused opportunity for doctoral researchers in civil engineering has been announced. The Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) in Portugal invites applications for a Research Scholarship focused on next-generation sustainable construction tools. This funded position offers early-stage PhD candidates hands-on experience developing advanced BIM-based Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) systems and exploring blockchain integration for the circular economy.
This scholarship provides direct immersion into high-impact research at the forefront of digital and sustainable engineering. It allows doctoral students to contribute to tangible tools like SmartLCA while advancing their own expertise. Furthermore, Instituto Superior Técnico is a leading European engineering institution. Consequently, recipients gain valuable experience within a prestigious academic environment, enhancing both their research profile and future career prospects in academia or industry.
Comprehensive Research Focus and Benefits
The selected scholar will engage in developing innovative solutions within the scientific area of Systems, Urbanism, Transportation, and Environment. Key research activities include:
- Development of dynamic Life Cycle Assessment databases.
- Integration of blockchain technology for tracking circular construction products.
- Enhancement of BIM object libraries and Digital Cockpit BIM validation.
This scholarship offers a funded pathway for doctoral candidates to deepen their specialization while contributing to meaningful sustainability goals.
Scholarship Advantages
Awardees gain significant professional and academic advantages:
- Funded Research Support: Financial backing for an initial period of 6 months, renewable up to 12 months.
- High Impact Project Work: Direct involvement in the development of the SmartLCA tool.
- Expertise Development: Gain specialized knowledge in BIM, LCA, blockchain applications, and sustainable construction.
- Network Access: Integration into a top-tier European engineering university’s research community.
- Career Alignment: Build experience directly relevant to the global green transition in infrastructure.
Eligibility Criteria
This position is designed for early-career researchers. To qualify, you must meet these requirements:
- Be currently registered in a Doctoral Programme.
- Have an academic background and research interest in Civil Engineering.
- Focus your work on relevant areas such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), sustainability databases, or blockchain applications.
- Provide official proof of your doctoral enrolment and academic qualifications.
- Be classified as an early-stage researcher (R1 level).
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official IST admissions portal:
Application Deadline
The final deadline to submit your application for this scholarship is January 30, 2026, at 23:59 Europe/Lisbon time.
Begin Your Application Journey
This research scholarship represents a unique opportunity to align doctoral studies with pioneering work in sustainable digital engineering. It is ideal for PhD candidates seeking to apply their research to real-world challenges in smart infrastructure and the circular economy.
Start by preparing your application documents, including proof of doctoral enrolment and your academic credentials. Ensure your application highlights your relevant research interests and technical skills.
Do not miss this chance to advance your research career at a premier European technical university. This scholarship seeks candidates with a clear vision for contributing to sustainable construction innovation. Prepare a compelling application that demonstrates your academic rigor and your passion for developing the next generation of engineering solutions. Your path to becoming a leader in smart and sustainable civil engineering begins with this decisive application.
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