PhD Program – GIMM PhD Program – GIMM

PhD Program

By offering top-tier training, we aim to nurture the future leaders of science and to provide citizens with the tools to engage with it

Exciting opportunities are now available to join GIMM as a PhD student!

Two calls are open: one for 17 PhD Studentships and another for participation in a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks.

Successful applicants will be registered in the PhD Programme of the Lisbon Academic Medical Centre (CAML), hosted by the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Lisbon.

All positions start on the 5th of January 2026

Application deadline: 9th of July 2025

Apply below!

The Biology and Biomedicine PhD Program – A unique opportunity

GIMM offers a distinctive PhD Program designed to attract and cultivate highly skilled researchers in biology and biomedicine. You’ll engage in intensive research within a dynamic learning environment, tackling complex biological challenges and addressing questions with significant societal impact. In your advanced training years, targeted sessions will further enhance your skills and prepare you for diverse career paths.

Our program promotes a culture of open, interdisciplinary collaboration. This is reflected in the joint creation of educational scientific modules by experts from various fields and in our core principle of encouraging students to share their work across laboratories, actively participate in varied seminar series, and attend talks and courses outside their primary focus.

As an international institute where English serves as the working language on campus, GIMM welcomes researchers from around the globe. To further support the integration of its international community, the institute offers access to Portuguese language classes, facilitating adaptation to daily life in Portugal.

At GIMM, you’ll be integrated into our international research community as a valued peer, receiving mentorship to develop into an independent scientist and a leader in academia, industry or in any field you choose. We welcome applications from ambitious undergraduates of all scientific disciplines — from life sciences to engineering — to become part of our vibrant, global community.

The program’s excellence is ensured by an executive team supported by a scientific and advisory committee. The initial three months of coursework provides a comprehensive exploration of biology, drawing on the institute’s wide-ranging research. This foundation will empower you to develop and pursue your research project effectively, with ample opportunity to explore GIMM’s scientific resources and establish interdisciplinary collaborations.

From developing your thesis proposal with your supervisor(s) to the completion of your PhD, you’ll be supported by the Education and Training unit and a dedicated Thesis Committee. Collaborative research initiatives between different research groups are strongly encouraged and facilitated.

GIMM inherits a rich history of creation of top-tier PhD programs and a lively atmosphere. Beyond exceptional research training, you’ll benefit from a well-rounded PhD experience that extends beyond the lab, promoting both social connections through activities often organized by the GIMM community itself, such as game nights, book club and cinema, and physical well-being with access to pilates, yoga classes, and various other sports activities, alongside general community-building initiatives.

PhD Studentships Available: Applications open

Marie Skłodowska -Curie Doctoral Network PhD position: Applications open

Why Choose GIMM

GIMM, with its strategically located campuses in Lisbon and Oeiras, provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and a dynamic, collaborative research environment. At GIMM, we aim to generate multi- and cross-disciplinary knowledge to answer fundamental questions of biology and human health in a fast-evolving environment, while developing solutions to improve health outcomes and promote local and global health equity. We are associated with the prestigious Doctoral Programme of the Lisbon Academic Medical Centre (CAML) – PhD CAML, from the Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, ensuring a robust academic foundation. You’ll benefit from advanced technologies and core facilities, including advanced imaging, genomics, and proteomics platforms, among many others. GIMM researchers actively participate in international consortia and industry partnerships, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. Our strong record of publications in high-impact journals underscores our commitment to research excellence.

At GIMM, you’ll join a truly international and inclusive community. We celebrate diversity and welcome candidates from all corners of the globe. English is our official language, ensuring smooth communication, and we offer Portuguese language classes to help you fully immerse yourself in our vibrant culture. Beyond the lab, GIMM promotes a strong sense of community through regular seminars, engaging social events, and networking opportunities, connecting you with fellow researchers worldwide.

Our program is designed to propel your career forward. You’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to excel in the global scientific community. We offer a comprehensive range of training and development opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and personalized career guidance. GIMM provides ample opportunities to develop transferable skills, such as grant writing, scientific communication, and project management, ensuring you’re well-prepared for diverse career paths. Benefit from mentorship by experienced researchers and access to extensive career development resources, all while being part of GIMM’s strong alumni network, with members working in prestigious institutions worldwide.

Choosing GIMM means embracing an exceptional lifestyle in Lisbon and Oeiras. Our prime locations offer a unique blend of academic rigor and a high quality of life. Imagine conducting groundbreaking research while being just moments away from stunning beaches, abundant sunshine, and the vibrant cultural scene of Lisbon. Both Lisbon and Oeiras are well-connected, providing easy access to European cities for international travel and collaboration. The region boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, with numerous museums, historical sites, and cultural events. High safety standards make Portugal an ideal destination for international students.