Internships

The participation of doctoral students in internships in industry and at foreign research institutes is a crucial element of doctoral training at Técnico.

Engaging in industry internships (e.g., at industrial companies, hospitals, public or private institutions) during the doctoral programme offers numerous advantages.

Firstly, it enhances the connection between academia and industry through the development of research projects that have potential interest to the companies. Secondly, it provides students with practical industry experience, which can encourage alternative career paths outside academia after completing their doctorate.

Promoting the mobility of doctoral students to follow internships at foreign research institutes is essential for the success of the PhD. This practice is already embedded in the scientific culture of Técnico’s research centers.

Internships in industry

There is a growing trend among companies in Portugal to hire doctoral graduates. The primary reason is that the industry increasingly recognizes and values the expertise that comes with a doctorate, particularly in solving complex challenges. This skill is vital in competitive markets where there is a constant demand for developing new and innovative products.

To establish a direct connection with the industry, Técnico’s PhD students can benefit from the “Técnico Partner Network” (TPN). The TPN is an alliance between Técnico and several companies spaning multiple sectors, including industrial and telecommunications companies, healthcare, business consultancy, and services. The main objective of this partnership is to support initiatives such as internships, grants, and facilities that foster the development of new technologies, products, and services, thereby adding value to society.

Furthermore, Técnico’s location in Lisbon offers excellent opportunities for internships and collaborations with leading companies, particularly those based in the Lisbon Unicorn Factory.

Internships in industry are considered an integral part of the doctoral student’s curricular plan. Up to 18 ECTS credits (equivalent to 14 full-time working weeks) can be considered through this type of training.

Internships in foreign research institutions

The international mobility of doctoral students is deeply rooted in the scientific culture of the research centers where they conduct their work plan. This mobility is further supported by the Mobility and International Cooperation Office at Técnico, which regularly disseminates internship opportunities abroad through various exchange programs, such as the Erasmus+ Traineeship Program.

Doctoral students who spend more than three months at a research institute in a foreign country that adheres to the Bologna process and have one of the doctoral thesis jury members from one of these countries, are eligible for the title of “European Doctorate” in addition to their doctorate.

Internships at foreign research institutes are considered an integral part of the doctoral student’s curricular plan.

Up to 12 ECTS credits (equivalent to 10 full-time working weeks) can be considered through this type of training.

Internships

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