Mechanical Engineering Phd Scholarship 2026 at INEGI Portugal With €1,309/Month Stipend
If you already hold a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and are enrolled in a doctoral programme, a new research fellowship in Porto is offering €1,309.64 per month for work on advanced composite materials.
The fellowship is offered by INEGI – Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering under the HOOPLA project and is designed for a doctoral researcher working on computational models for fibre-reinforced polymers. It is a full-time research position based in Porto.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants need a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and should already be enrolled in a doctoral programme. Proof of doctoral enrolment is one of the required application documents.
The strongest candidates will also have:
- Programming knowledge, particularly Python or similar languages
- Understanding of composite-material mechanics
- Experience with finite-element structural analysis
- Experience modelling or characterising composite materials
- Scientific or technical writing experience
- Strong teamwork, communication and independent working skills
Both Portuguese and English proficiency are given high priority.
What Would You Actually Research?
This is not simply financial support for an existing PhD.
The HOOPLA project is developing high-fidelity finite-element models for advanced thermoplastic composite materials, particularly models capable of connecting microscopic defects with larger-scale structural behaviour.
The selected researcher will help identify defects in fibre-reinforced composites, develop micromechanical and mesoscopic models, and document the results for reports and possible scientific publications.
In practical terms, this opportunity suits someone whose PhD interests already sit around computational mechanics, finite-element modelling, composites or materials engineering.
Can International PhD Students Apply?
The call does not restrict applicants by nationality.
However, candidates holding degrees from universities outside Portugal need to complete Portuguese recognition of their foreign academic degree. The recognition certificate becomes mandatory before the fellowship contract can be signed.
So foreign applicants can compete, but they should not leave degree recognition until after selection.
How Much Does the Fellowship Pay?
The monthly research allowance is €1,309.64, paid by bank transfer.
The fellowship also includes personal accident insurance and, where applicable, support for voluntary social insurance.
The initial contract is for 12 months, beginning in September 2026, and may potentially be renewed within the limits of the relevant research-grant regulations.
One point worth understanding: this is a research fellowship under Portuguese scholarship regulations, not a conventional permanent employment contract.
How Will Candidates Be Selected?
Your CV gets you into the serious competition, but the interview carries more weight.
The final assessment is:
40% CV + 60% interview
The panel will consider your academic background, technical qualifications, research experience, motivation and how closely your profile matches the HOOPLA project.
That means an applicant should prepare to discuss actual technical work—not just repeat degree titles.
Be ready to explain your experience with finite-element methods, composite materials, programming, modelling decisions and research problems you have solved.
What Documents Do You Need?
Your application must include:
- Motivation letter explaining why your profile fits the position
- CV
- Academic qualification certificate
- Proof of doctoral-programme enrolment
Applications are submitted through the official INEGI careers website under the relevant Research Fellowship listing.
Which Deadline Should You Follow?
There is an inconsistency in the published material that candidates should notice.
The mechanical engineering Phd scholarship application deadline is 31 August 2026. But for safety, applicants should treat 21 August 2026 as the operative deadline unless INEGI officially clarifies or extends it. Relying on the later EURAXESS date could be risky.
Questions Applicants Are Likely to Ask
Can international candidates apply?
Yes, nationality is not stated as a restriction, but foreign degrees require Portuguese recognition before contracting.
Can I apply with a Master’s in another engineering field?
The call specifically states Mechanical Engineering, so applicants from adjacent disciplines should not assume equivalence without confirmation.
Do I need to be enrolled in a PhD already?
Yes. Proof of doctoral enrolment is listed among the required documents.
Is Python compulsory?
The call asks for proficient knowledge of programming languages such as Python or others, so programming ability is clearly part of the expected profile.
Is this suitable for experimental-only researchers?
Probably not as a first choice. The project is strongly focused on computational and finite-element modelling of composite materials.
Not Sure Whether Your Mechanical Engineering Background Fits?
If you are unsure about your Master’s specialisation, PhD enrolment, foreign-degree recognition, finite-element experience or programming background, leave your question in the comments below the article. Mention your degree, current PhD area and main technical skills, and we can help you judge whether this INEGI fellowship is genuinely aligned with your profile.