Refining, Petrochemical and Chemical Engineering
Programme Overview
The Doctoral Programme in Refining, Petrochemical and Chemical Engineering at Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, aims to enhance the competitiveness of companies in these sectors within Portugal, by integrating students into a business environment and promoting specialised knowledge in Refining, Petrochemicals and Chemistry.
The doctoral students will be closely linked to two of the five participating universities as well as to a company where they will conduct their doctoral research. It ensures 100% employability, typically within the consortium’s member companies.
* The programme is a joint initiative of Universidade de Lisboa (Instituto Superior Técnico), Universidade de Aveiro, University of Coimbra, NOVA University of Lisbon and University of Porto, as well as a wide range of companies.
Programme Structure
The doctoral programme typically lasts four years (240 ECTS), with a strong emphasis on scientific research. Additionally, the Técnico Doctoral Programme provides flexibility to adapt each student’s path to their specific research goals.
Overall structure:
- Doctoral Programme: 36 ECTS
- Doctoral Thesis: 204 ECTS
The doctoral programme is organised into a three-block framework:
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36
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204
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Specialisation Courses (36 ECTS)
Advanced scientific curricular units in Refining, Petrochemical and Chemical Engineering or related fields, providing an in-depth understanding of topics directly related to the thesis.
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Doctoral Thesis (204 ECTS)
Flexible academic tracks with active participation in national and international research and innovation projects. The doctoral programme supports the development of the thesis and encourages an entrepreneurial spirit, aiming to expand the frontiers of knowledge.
Research Areas
The Doctoral Programme in Refining, Petrochemical and Chemical Engineering covers a wide range of scientific fields, showcasing the diversity and excellence of the research conducted at Técnico. Students have the opportunity to engage in advanced research on both fundamental and applied topics, including:
- Refining
- Oil and Renewable Fuels
- Industrial Processes
- Polymers
- Energy Management
The doctoral programme strongly encourages interdisciplinary research, fostering collaborations with other scientific fields within Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, and international institutions. Research is conducted at one of the 25 Research Units (RU) affiliated with Técnico, particularly in those RUs that are most closely aligned with this doctoral programme:
Target Audience
Admission to the Técnico doctoral programmes is open to candidates with a strong academic background and a demonstrated motivation for advanced research.
Entry Requirements
- Holders of a master’s degree (or equivalent) in Science, Engineering or related fields.
- Holders of an undergraduate degree who have demonstrated exceptional academic and scientific achievements may be considered, pending evaluation.
- Candidates from other scientific fields may also be admitted and may be assigned preparatory curricular units.
The doctoral programme is intended for candidates with a background in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering or related fields. A master’s degree is the typical entry requirement, but applicants with other relevant academic backgrounds may be admitted and may be assigned preparatory curricular units, when appropriate.
Student Community
PDEIC students are part of a vibrant, diverse, and supportive academic community, benefiting from multiple student-led and institutional initiatives:
- Técnico Doctoral School: Offers transversal training, seminars, and support services for all doctoral students.
- Técnico PhD Hub: Brings together the Técnico’s PhD community with experience, interests, and insights, promoting the value of the PhD.