Vice-Presidency opens call for five doctoral grants in strategic areas
Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional
The Vice-Presidency of the Regional Government, through the Regional Fund for Science and Technology, has launched a call for five doctoral grants in academia, under the PRO-SCIENTIA programme.
Announced by Vice-President Artur Lima, this measure represents an investment of over 413,000 Euros. It is aligned with RIS3 Azores – Smart Specialisation Strategy, thereby strengthening the Region's commitment to knowledge, innovation, and sustainable development.
“We acknowledge that scientific research is crucial to creating a more resilient and cohesive society that is better prepared for the challenges of the future,” Artur Lima stated, emphasising the importance of this support for young scientists.
Among the five grants available, three are for Social Sciences, with a view to deepening the geopolitical and geostrategic understanding of the Autonomous Region of the Azores through the analysis of the social, political and economic dynamics that shape the territory.
The remaining two grants are for Medical and Health Sciences, areas deemed essential for improving public health and positioning the Azores as a medical biotechnology innovation hub.
"We are investing in areas that have a direct impact on people's lives and the future of the Region: health, to ensure better care for our population, and social sciences, especially geostrategy, to leverage our knowledge about the importance and relevance of our Region for Portugal, Europe and the world," stated the Vice-President.
Artur Lima emphasised that the aim is to attract and maintain scientific talent in the Azores. As he noted, "in supporting our researchers, we are valuing knowledge, encouraging innovation and consolidating the Azores as a smart and innovative region in the national and European context."
The application period runs from September 15 to October 31, 2025. Interested parties should consult all information on these calls at https://frct.azores.gov.pt/concursos/#abertos and on the submission platform at https://idia.azores.gov.pt/.