Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Educational Sciences – EDigiPolis Project (FPCEUP, University of Porto) University of Porto in Portugal

The Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences of the University of Porto (FPCEUP) is inviting applications for a postdoctoral research fellowship within the EDigiPolis project, hosted at the Centre for Research and Intervention in Education (CIIE). The project, titled “EDigiPolis – Articulating School Engagement and Political Learning: Understanding and Promoting Youth Democratic Practices and Critical Thinking through Digital-Visual Tools,” is co-financed by the Innovation and Digital Transition Programme (COMPETE 2030), Portugal 2030, and the European Union, with additional funding from the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT).

EDigiPolis addresses the intersection of education, youth engagement, and political learning, focusing on the development and application of digital-visual tools to foster democratic practices and critical thinking among young people. The project employs a combination of offline and online research methods, including educational software for pluralistic debate and algorithms for detecting visual political action. These approaches will be tested in diverse contexts, particularly with young activists and NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) across Portugal. The research will integrate AI and ethnography, progress through quasi-experimental studies, and utilize participatory methodologies to co-create educational and political solutions tailored to youth contexts.

The successful postdoctoral fellow will join a multidisciplinary team under the scientific supervision of Dr. Carla Malafaia (Assistant Professor, FPCEUP), with additional panel members including Prof. Isabel Menezes and Dr. Pedro D. Ferreira. The fellow will contribute to data collection, processing, and analysis; facilitate Hackathon and CiCli-Lab participatory activities; write reports and scientific articles; present findings at conferences; and assist in organizing meetings and dissemination events. The position is based at CIIE, FPCEUP, with the possibility of travel as required by the project.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a PhD in Educational Sciences, Psychology, Sociology, Communication, Anthropology, Political Science, or International Relations, awarded within the last three years, with doctoral research conducted at an institution other than CIIE. Required skills include proficiency in social science research methodologies (qualitative and/or quantitative), experience with data analysis software, and, for non-native speakers, proficiency in Portuguese. Preferred qualifications include first-author publications in indexed journals, participatory research experience, work with youth, involvement in funded projects, event organization, and proficiency in English. Availability for frequent travel is also valued.

Funding: The fellowship offers a monthly maintenance allowance of 1851.00 Euros, personal accident insurance, and optional voluntary social insurance. The initial contract is for 12 months, renewable based on project needs and funding, up to the project’s maximum duration.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted via the APPLY platform (https://www.apply.up.pt) by November 27, 2025. Required documents include a CV (in Portuguese), PhD certificate, motivation letter (in English), proof of language skills (if applicable), and supporting evidence of qualifications and experience. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

For further details, visit the official announcement at FPCEUP News or contact [email protected].