The Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo (IPVC) is offering a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship as part of the DRIVOLUTION Agenda, funded by the Portuguese Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR). The fellowship is hosted by the proMetheus Research Unit in Materials, Energy and Environment for Sustainability, and is focused on advancing research in mechanics, mechatronics, and robotics for the transition to the factory of the future. The successful candidate will join multidisciplinary R&D teams at the School of Technology and Management (ESTG-IPVC) in Portugal, working on innovative projects that integrate computational mechanics, intelligent control of flexible and collaborative robotic systems, multifunctional and intelligent robotic links and mechatronic subsystems, thermal and fluid dynamics analysis of advanced and additively manufactured robotic components, computer vision and artificial intelligence for collaborative robotic environments, and AGV and intelligent logistics systems for industrial applications.

The fellowship offers access to state-of-the-art laboratory, computational, and experimental infrastructure, and provides opportunities for strong academic–industrial collaboration. Fellows will participate in scientific dissemination activities, including technical reports, journal publications, and conference presentations, contributing to the broader goals of the DRIVOLUTION project. The position is funded with a monthly maintenance allowance of €1,851.00, paid by bank transfer, and is governed by the Portuguese Research Fellowship Statute. Fellowship holders may voluntarily subscribe to the Portuguese voluntary social security scheme.

Eligibility requires a PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Automation, Materials Science, Computer Science, or related fields, obtained prior to the start of the fellowship. A good command of English is necessary, and international candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The fellowship is initially for 6 months, with the possibility of renewal, and is expected to start in January 2026. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with a final deadline of December 28, 2025.

To apply, candidates should send a brief expression of interest, including a CV and a short description of research experience and interests, by email to the project coordinators, Prof. Dr. Adélio M. S. Cavadas and Prof. Dr. César M. A. Vasques. For more information and to access the full position details, visit the official position link.