In today’s interconnected world, fostering international collaboration through research mobility is more vital than ever. The FCT Mobility Programme, spearheaded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), presents an exceptional opportunity for scholars to engage in high-impact global research initiatives. Designed for both recent PhD graduates and seasoned researchers, this fellowship offers full funding for short-term mobility, enhancing academic careers through cross-border research engagement.
Now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 academic cycle, the programme serves as a strategic platform for knowledge exchange. It empowers researchers from various disciplines to either explore international research ecosystems or host foreign experts within Portuguese institutions. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step overview of the fellowship’s structure, eligibility criteria, application process, financial support, and more—making it a comprehensive resource for prospective applicants.
Cited source: FCT – Foundation for Science and Technology, Portugal.
About the FCT Mobility Programme Fellowship
Program Name: FCT Mobility Programme
Current Status: As of 2025, the programme remains active and is currently open for applications.
Overview & Objectives:
The FCT Mobility Programme facilitates short-term research exchanges with the objective of promoting international collaboration in science and technology. It supports the strategic goals of enhancing Portugal’s research profile, building bilateral ties, and contributing to the advancement of global knowledge. The fellowship operates through two distinct modalities:
- Outgoing Mobility: Designed for researchers affiliated with Portuguese institutions who seek to conduct research abroad.
- Incoming Mobility: Tailored for international researchers intending to carry out research within Portuguese host institutions.
Duration:
- Outgoing: Between 2 and 11 consecutive months
- Incoming: Between 1 and 3 consecutive months
Study/Work Mode:
Participation is strictly full-time and conducted onsite at the host institution.
Core Focus Areas:
The fellowship supports research across all scientific and scholarly domains, including but not limited to:
- Engineering and Technological Sciences
- Natural and Environmental Sciences
- Biomedical and Life Sciences
- Medical and Health Sciences
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualifications:
Applicants must either hold a PhD degree or be currently enrolled in a doctoral programme. There is no restriction on the academic discipline, which makes the fellowship accessible to candidates from diverse fields.
Professional/Research Experience:
Candidates should be actively engaged in research and demonstrate a commitment to advancing their scholarly expertise. Both early-stage researchers and experienced postdoctoral scholars are encouraged to apply.
Age Limit:
The programme does not impose a specific age limit.
Nationality Restrictions:
- Outgoing Mobility: Applicants must be affiliated with a Portuguese Research & Development (R&D) institution.
- Incoming Mobility: Open to international researchers from all countries, provided the host institution is based in Portugal.
Language Requirements:
While no standardized language proficiency test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) is officially required, applicants are expected to have working proficiency in English or Portuguese to ensure effective communication within the host institution.
Other Requirements:
Applicants must provide a letter of invitation or formal acceptance from the prospective host institution. The proposed research should align with the academic or strategic objectives of both the sending and receiving institutions.
Application Process
Where and How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted online via the official FCT portal. No application fees are charged for participation.
Application Steps:
- Visit the offial site (link given below).
- Review and download the official application guidelines.
- Register or log in via the Formstack application portal.
- Complete the application form with accurate information.
- Upload all required supporting documentation.
- Submit the final application before the stated deadline.
Required Documents
To ensure a successful application, candidates must prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Comprehensive academic resume including publications, grants, and research history.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A concise narrative outlining the purpose of mobility, expected outcomes, and relevance to both home and host institutions.
- Recommendation Letter(s): Minimum one recommendation letter from a current supervisor or professional referee.
- Academic Transcripts: While not mandatory for PhD holders, submission is advised to strengthen the profile.
- Language Proficiency Proof: Optional unless explicitly required by the host institution.
- Passport Copy or Government-Issued ID: Required for identity verification.
- Host Institution Invitation Letter: A mandatory document confirming the host’s willingness to accommodate the applicant.
Fields of Study / Research Areas Supported
The FCT Mobility Programme invites applications from all academic backgrounds. While disciplinary specialization is not a constraint, applicants are encouraged to align their projects with the broader scientific and socio-economic priorities of Portugal and the European Research Area.
Examples of key thematic areas include:
- Sustainable Development and Energy Transition
- Climate Change Mitigation and Environmental Policy
- Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation
- Public Health and Medical Technologies
- Preservation of Cultural and Historical Heritage
Proposals that demonstrate interdisciplinary integration and cross-sectoral relevance are especially welcome.
Financial Benefits
The FCT Mobility Programme provides robust financial support to ensure scholars can fully focus on their research without economic constraints.
- Monthly Stipend:
- Outgoing Mobility: Between €1,200 and €1,600, depending on the host country and cost of living.
- Incoming Mobility: Around €1,000 per month to cover living expenses.
- Travel Support:
- Covers round-trip economy airfare between the applicant’s country of residence and the host institution.
- Research Allowance:
- Support for laboratory materials, conference participation, and publishing expenses.
- Relocation Assistance:
- May include coverage for visa application fees, initial accommodation, and other essential relocation needs.
- Health Insurance:
- Basic international health insurance may be provided for the duration of the stay, subject to terms.
- Monthly Stipend:
Selection Process
The selection process is designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and scientific merit.
Stages:
- Administrative Screening: Initial check for eligibility and completeness.
- Scientific Peer Review: Independent experts assess the research proposal.
- Shortlisting and Interviews (if applicable): Top candidates may be invited for an interview.
- Final Evaluation: Decisions are made by the FCT Evaluation Board.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Clarity and innovation of the proposed research
- Academic track record and publication quality
- Strategic relevance to the host institution’s goals
- Methodological soundness and feasibility
- Potential for long-term collaboration and impact
Timeline:
- Evaluations are conducted quarterly.
- Results are typically communicated within 30 days following each evaluation phase.
Important Application Deadlines
Stage | Date |
Application Opens | November 7, 2024 |
Final Application Deadline | December 31, 2025 |
Next Evaluation Phase Ends | June 2025 |
Provisional Result Release | July 2025 |
Fellowship Start (Tentative) | Based on applicant schedule |
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Preparing a competitive application requires thoughtful presentation and strategic alignment with programme goals.
- Statement of Purpose: Articulate your research objectives clearly, showing how they align with both institutions and address global research priorities.
- Curriculum Vitae: Structure your CV to emphasize research productivity, international experience, and interdisciplinary contributions.
- Letters of Recommendation: Choose referees who are familiar with your research and can comment on your academic potential and collaborative ability.
- Document Formatting: Use professional templates such as Europass for CVs and follow structured formats for proposals to improve clarity.
Contact Information
For additional information or queries related to the programme, you may reach out to:
- Program Contact Page: FCT Official Contact
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +351 21 391 15 00
Conclusion
The FCT Mobility Programme stands as a valuable initiative for fostering high-level scientific exchange and strengthening the global impact of research. Whether your goal is to gain international experience, access specialized facilities, or contribute to meaningful global partnerships, this programme offers the necessary resources and structure to support your ambitions.
Submit your application via the official FCT portal and take the next step in advancing your research career through international collaboration.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | FCT Mobility Programme |
| Host Country / Region | Portugal (Incoming); Global (Outgoing) |
| Funded By | Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), Portugal |
| Duration | 1–11 Months (Depending on modality) |
| Study Mode | Full-time, Onsite |
| Eligibility | PhD holders or candidates in any discipline |
| Financial Support | Stipend, Travel, Research Allowance |
| Fields of Study | All disciplines (STEM, Humanities, Social Sciences, etc.) |
| Application Deadline | December 31, 2025 |
| Official Website | Click Here |
Cited source: FCT Mobility Programme Application Page
References
FAQs for the FCT Mobility Programme
The FCT Mobility Programme funds short-term international research exchanges for PhD scholars and researchers affiliated with Portuguese or foreign institutions.
PhD holders or candidates affiliated with a Portuguese or international research institution can apply, depending on the fellowship type.
Research stays range from 2 to 11 months for outgoing applicants and 1 to 3 months for incoming researchers hosted in Portugal.
Yes, the programme provides a monthly stipend, travel costs, and research-related expenses to support scholars during their mobility.
The final application deadline is December 31 or until available funds are allocated, whichever comes first.
You can apply through the official Formstack portal after reviewing the guidelines and submitting required documents online.
Yes, the programme accepts applicants from all research disciplines, including STEM, humanities, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies.
You need a CV, research proposal, invitation letter, recommendation, ID proof, and optionally transcripts and language scores.
Yes, international researchers can apply for the incoming mobility stream if invited by a Portuguese host institution.
The fellowship covers monthly allowances, travel reimbursement, basic insurance, and support for research materials or relocation.
