The AQUA Research Scholarship 2026 in Portugal is a financed opportunity for both domestic and international students interested in aquaculture research, biotechnology, and marine sciences. This scholarship offers a monthly stipend of €1,090.98 and practical scientific training within the MultiAlive Project, which focuses on detecting toxic algal blooms and predicting contamination in offshore bivalve aquaculture.
The scholarship is offered by S2AQUAcoLAB in the Algarve region of Portugal. It is designed for graduates who want to improve their research credentials while preparing to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in marine and environmental sciences. Selected applicants will contribute to a significant marine research project funded by Europe.
AQUA Research Scholarship Benefits
- A stipend of €1,090.98 per month
- Eight months of full-time financed research work
- Coverage for personal accident insurance
- Reimbursement for voluntary social insurance (where applicable)
- Direct involvement in a maritime research project funded by the EU
- Instruction in cutting-edge field and laboratory research techniques
- Experience writing for scientific papers and reports
- Possibility of developing a future master’s thesis within the parameters of the project
- Access to Portugal’s expanding aquaculture and marine biotechnology research ecosystem
AQUA Research Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (qualification for Level 6 Higher Education).
- Applicants must have an educational background in biotechnology, marine biology, marine sciences, or a similar discipline
- Enrollment in a doctoral program, master’s program, integrated master’s program, or approved non-degree academic program associated with research institutions.
- Applications are open for Portuguese citizens, Citizens from European Union member states and Citizens from non-EU countries
- However, candidates must be permanent and habitual residents of Portugal at the time they apply.
- S2AQUAcoLAB is especially looking for candidates with prior experience in:
- Phytoplankton biological sampling
- Bivalve mollusk sampling
- Phytoplankton species identification and quantification
- Research on marine algae that produce biotoxins
- Processing experimental data
- Implementation of scientific projects
- Laboratory methods like LC-MS/MS or HPLC
- Activities related to scientific communication
- Proficiency in advanced English
- Collaboration, initiative, and drive for research
Documents Required
- An online application form
- Degree Certificate
- Academic Transcript
- A valid Passport
- Updated CV or resume.
- Other Supporting documents
Research Areas
- Marine Biology
- Marine Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Related Biological Sciences
- Applicants from closely related scientific backgrounds may also be considered.
Objectives
The chosen researcher will join the MultiAlive project team and participate in a number of scientific endeavors, such as:
- Campaigns for water monitoring and field trips
- Examination of populations of phytoplankton
- Identification of marine biotoxins produced by hazardous algae
- Bivalve sample preparation and extraction in a lab
- Liquid chromatography techniques for detecting marine biotoxins
- Analysis and interpretation of experimental data
- Preparing scientific reports
- Writing scientific articles
- Activities for communication and distribution according to project results
- Graduate-level research jobs can benefit greatly from this combination of fieldwork, lab research, and scientific publishing.
How to Apply for AQUA Research Scholarship
- Applicants must apply online for this scholarship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the AQUA Research Scholarship 2026. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply for this funded research opportunity in Portugal.
What is the AQUA Research Scholarship 2026?
The AQUA Research Scholarship 2026 is a funded research opportunity in Portugal for international and domestic students. It offers a monthly stipend of €1,090.98 and focuses on aquaculture research, marine sciences, and biotechnology within the MultiAlive Project.
Who can apply for the AQUA Research Scholarship?
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, marine biology, marine sciences, or related fields can apply. They must be enrolled in a master’s, doctoral, or approved non-degree program. Portuguese, EU, and non-EU citizens are eligible, but must be permanent residents of Portugal at the time of application.
What is the deadline for the AQUA Research Scholarship 2026?
The last date to apply for the Portugal AQUA Research Scholarship 2026 is 22nd June 2026. All applications must be submitted online before this deadline.
What are the benefits of the AQUA Research Scholarship?
Benefits include a monthly stipend of €1,090.98, eight months of full-time financed research, personal accident insurance, voluntary social insurance reimbursement, and training in advanced field and laboratory techniques. Scholars also gain experience in scientific writing and publishing.
What research areas are covered under this scholarship?
The scholarship covers research areas such as marine biology, marine sciences, biotechnology, and related biological sciences. The project focuses on detecting toxic algal blooms and predicting contamination in offshore bivalve aquaculture.
What documents are required for the AQUA Research Scholarship application?
Required documents include an online application form, degree certificate, academic transcript, a valid passport, an updated CV or resume, and other supporting documents as specified.
Is the AQUA Research Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the AQUA Research Scholarship is fully funded. It provides a monthly stipend of €1,090.98, insurance coverage, and full support for eight months of research work in Portugal.
Can international students apply for the AQUA Research Scholarship?
Yes, international students from non-EU countries can apply. However, they must be permanent and habitual residents of Portugal at the time of application. The scholarship is open to all nationalities.
How do I apply for the AQUA Research Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must apply online through the official EURAXESS job portal. The application link is provided on the scholarship page. Ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.
What is the MultiAlive Project?
The MultiAlive Project is the sponsor of the AQUA Research Scholarship. It uses multi-observational techniques to detect toxic algal blooms and predict contamination in offshore bivalve aquaculture, contributing to global sustainable food production.
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