Summary
The IST Research Scholarship 2027 is a fully funded research opportunity offered by Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) for international doctoral students. Designed for researchers specializing in ultrafast laser physics and optics, this fellowship supports research conducted at the prestigious Institute of Plasmas and Nuclear Fusion (IPFN) in Lisbon, Portugal, providing a monthly stipend of €1,359.64 for 6 to 12 months.
Designation
- Position: PhD Research Fellow / Research Scholar (Bolsa de Investigação)
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
| Host Institution | Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) |
| Research Facility | Institute of Plasmas and Nuclear Fusion (IPFN) |
| Degree Level | PhD / Doctoral Students |
| Coverage | Fully Funded (€1,359.64 / month) |
| Duration | 6 months (renewable up to 12 months) |
| Eligible Nationalities | All Nationalities (Open Worldwide) |
| Funding Program | Compete 2030 / Portugal 2030 |
| Application Deadline | September 2, 2026 |
Research Area
- Physics / Optics & Photonics: Development and characterization of 1030 nm CPA (Chirped-Pulse Amplification) and 3200 nm OPCPA (Optical Parametric Chirped-Pulse Amplification) laser systems.
- Near-Infrared (NIR) and Mid-Infrared (MIR) ultrafast lasers, amplifier designs, and advanced laser diagnostics.
Location
- City/Country: Lisbon, Portugal
- Host Center: Institute of Plasmas and Nuclear Fusion (IPFN), Instituto Superior Técnico
Eligibility / Qualification
- Enrollment: Currently enrolled in (or planning to enroll in) a PhD program in Physics, Optics, or a related discipline.
- Experience: At least 4 years of postgraduate experience in solid-state NIR and MIR ultrafast laser system design, operation, and characterization (specifically focusing on OPA or OPCPA technologies).
- Technical Background: Demonstrated track record with cutting-edge optical systems, diagnostics, pulse energy/duration measurements, and ideally exposure to global, top-tier laser laboratories.
- Autonomy: Candidates must have independent laboratory/experimental research skills.
Scholarship Description & Benefits
- Monthly Allowance: €1,359.64 per month.
- Duration: Initial contract for 6 months, renewable for up to a total of 12 months.
- Funding Source: Funded by Instituto Superior Técnico under the Compete 2030 / Portugal 2030 operational program.
- Environment: Hands-on work in state-of-the-art optical and fusion plasma research facilities at the Institute of Plasmas and Nuclear Fusion.
Required Documents
- Completed Online Application Form
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
- Proof of PhD Registration or Enrollment
- Motivation Letter
How to Apply
- Submission Portal: Applications must be submitted directly through the official Instituto Superior Técnico admissions platform.
- Curriculum-Based Selection (100%): Evaluation is strictly based on the submitted application documents—there is no separate interview round.
- CV Recommendations: Clearly emphasize technical proficiencies right away in your CV, including:
- Laser wavelengths and pulse durations/energies
- Amplifier and OPA/OPCPA architectures built or operated
- Diagnostics and optical setups designed
- Scientific publications and past research facilities/laboratories
Last Date for Apply
- Application Deadline: September 2, 2026
