The PhD Programme in Molecular Biosciences (MolBioS) is a cutting-edge, research-driven doctoral programme in the life sciences. Bridging the gap between molecules and living systems, it provides advanced training in the molecular approaches needed to understand the fundamental mechanisms of life.
Designed to foster scientific excellence and innovation, MolBioS prepares versatile and transdisciplinary researchers to address complex biological challenges at the interface of multiple fields. Coordinated by ITQB NOVA, the programme also brings the expertise of research groups from iBET FCT NOVA, and the Gulbenkian Institute for Molecular Science – Oeiras, offering students access to a vibrant and collaborative research environment.
Curricular structure
The MolBiolS programme recognizes individual interests and requirements in the context of a PhD. After a core training period designed to provide a broad scientific background, train professional skills and promote entrepreneurship, students tailor their individual curriculum by choosing between one of three specialties: Biology, Biochemistry and Biotechnology.
The programme totals 240 credits (ECTS); most (210 ECTS) correspond to the PhD thesis and the remaining 30 ECTS correspond to curricular units, distributed in core training (15 weeks | 10 compulsory curricular units) and non-core (5 weeks | 6 conditional optional curricular units among several that are offered in the program).
Two short lab rotations enable students to become acquainted with the science made at the host institutions.
