- Location: Leiria, Portugal
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Host Institution: INOV – Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering Innovation
- Focus Area: Computer Engineering – Mobile Computing
A new frontier in research is opening for talented students worldwide. The Research Initiation Scholarship invites aspiring researchers to take their first professional step into mobile computing innovation.
Offered by the well-known INOV Institute under the Liber24 Project, this scholarship aims to cultivate fresh scientific talent by putting recipients in a real-world, high-impact R&D environment.
If you are a student passionate about mobile technologies and accessibility solutions, this program presents a priceless opportunity for you to launch a meaningful research career in Europe.
About the Scholarship
The Research Initiation Scholarship consolidates a candidate’s scientific training through hands-on involvement in an advanced research project.
Project Focus:
The scholarship centres on the Liber24 Project – an initiative that is focused on creating innovative firmware and applications for a next-generation Braille computer. This device, featuring a 10-inch portable screen and an extended high-contrast Braille keyboard, will revolutionize digital accessibility for visually impaired users.
Key Responsibilities:
Your responsibilities are:
- Study and document Android 10 features specific to the Liber24 platform
- Engage in exclusive training sessions and practical prototype testing
- Develop and test cutting-edge Android applications
- Prepare detailed technical reports and project documentation
Scholars will work under the direct supervision of Eng. Paulo Chaves at INOV’s research facility in Leiria, Portugal.
Funding and Benefits of the Scholarship
If you are selected, you will enjoy comprehensive financial and professional support:
- Duration: 6 months
- Monthly Allowance: €651.12 (paid via direct bank transfer)
- Location: INOV Campus, Leiria, Portugal
- Field of Study: Computer Engineering – Mobile Computing
- Legal Framework: In compliance with Portugal’s Research Fellow Law and the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) regulations.
Through this scholarship, you will:
- Gain firsthand experience working on an internationally significant research project.
- You will also master Android application development and contribute to assistive technology innovation.
- You will learn from highly respected engineers and professors in Portugal’s thriving tech ecosystem.
- Be part of a project that empowers the visually impaired community with groundbreaking digital solutions.
Who is eligible for the scholarship?
To be an eligible applicant, you must:
- Be enrolled in a Professional Higher Technical Course (preferably TeSP in Information Systems Programming)
- Possess strong academic records and a clear motivation for mobile computing development
- Show relevant practical experience, even at an introductory level, that aligns with the scholarship’s work plan
This scholarship is ideal for students who want to specialize in mobile app development, Android systems, or accessibility technology.
How candidates will be selected
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) Quality: 25%
- Suitability of Academic Training: 25%
- Practical Experience Related to the Project: 30%
- Motivation and Personal Statement: 20%
An expert panel led by Prof. Luís Miguel Silveira, alongside Prof. Mário Serafim Nunes and Prof. Miguel Mira da Silva, will review and rank all applications.
If you are interested, you are encouraged to apply for this scholarship early.
How to apply for the scholarship
Interested candidates should submit their applications via the official platform:
Apply Here: Research Initiation Scholarship 2026 Application Portal
You will find more information on other necessary details on the application portal.
In your application, make sure that your CV, proof of enrollment, and motivation statement present you as someone who is fit for this project.
If you are passionate about technology, innovation, and making a difference, the Research Initiation Scholarship will be the perfect fit for you.