Earlier this month, the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) announced its 2026 Call for PhD Studentships, an opportunity for students to fund the research activities of their PhD degree. Seizing the momentum, our PhD Student Meetup focused on the daunting task of writing an FCT application.

On 12 March, more than 20 students gathered in room 336 for the informal workshop which was held in collaboration with the Interactive Technologies Institute (ITI/LARSyS). For two hours, Patrícia Piedade (INESC-ID GAIPS and ITI student) and Beatriz Severes (ITI student), both successful applicants, took the stage to give various tips and insights into the process of writing a grant application.

From advice on self-presentation to the importance of having a clearly defined plan (including a contingency plan), the workshop ended with a writing session, so attendees could put the newly acquired knowledge into practice. As applicants, usually, tend to retreat into their shell during the writing of applications, this was an opportunity for them to connect and share their own perspectives. “Applying for a grant is usually a very isolating process so this workshop was great to exchange experiences with fellow students”, shared one of the participants.

⁠*The INESC-ID PhD Students Meetups are informal gatherings designed to support and connect our doctoral researchers. Created by the Communications and Outreach Office, the series offers space for community building, peer exchange, personal and professional growth, and insight into the wider opportunities of the PhD journey.

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