COCOON Research Fellowship 2025 at ISMAT: The COCOON Research Fellowship 2025 at ISMAT is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for MSc graduates specializing in Biodesign, Circular Design, and Strategic Design. This program, supported by the European Erasmus+ COCOON Project, offers an excellent platform for researchers passionate about sustainability, innovation, and design methodologies. If you’re an aspiring researcher looking to make a significant impact in the field of sustainable design, this fellowship could be the perfect opportunity for you!
COCOON Research Fellowship 2025 at ISMAT
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | COCOON Research Fellowship 2025 at ISMAT |
| Funding | Fully funded (Monthly stipend of €1,309.64) |
| Duration | 10 Months (April – December 2025) |
| Location | ISMAT, Portugal |
| Eligibility | MSc Graduates in Design or related fields from COCOON partner institutions |
| Language Requirements | Proficiency in Portuguese & English (Certification required) |
| Fields of Study | Biodesign, Circular Design, Strategic Design |
| Application Deadline | December 31, 2025 |
| Official Website | COCOON Fellowship |
The COCOON Research Fellowship 2025 at ISMAT offers a unique, fully funded opportunity for MSc graduates to engage in cutting-edge research in Biodesign, Circular Design, and Strategic Design. With a monthly stipend of €1,309.64, professional mentorship, and international networking opportunities, this fellowship is ideal for researchers aiming to make a difference in sustainability and innovation.
Don’t miss out! Apply before December 31, 2025. For more details, visit the official COCOON Fellowship page.
What is the COCOON Research Fellowship?
The COCOON Research Fellowship 2025 is part of the Erasmus+ COCOON Project (Ref: 101087204), aiming to revolutionize sustainable design methodologies and address global environmental challenges. Hosted by the Instituto Superior Manuel Teixeira Gomes (ISMAT) in Portugal, the program offers a structured research experience, providing the necessary resources for researchers to develop cutting-edge solutions in Biodesign, Circular Economy, and Strategic Design.
Why Apply for the COCOON Fellowship?
1. Fully Funded with Competitive Benefits
- Monthly stipend of €1,309.64
- Personal accident insurance for the entire fellowship period
- Social security benefits
- Professional mentorship under Professor Américo Mateus, an expert in strategic design
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities at ISMAT
2. Develop Cutting-Edge Research in Sustainability
This fellowship focuses on Biodesign, Circular Economy, and Strategic Design, allowing researchers to develop, test, and implement new sustainability models.
3. Boost Your Career Prospects
Past fellows have secured PhD positions, consulting roles, and academic research opportunities in leading institutions and sustainability-focused organizations.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the COCOON Research Fellowship 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold an MSc degree in Design, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field.
- Have research experience in Biodesign, Circular Design, or Strategic Design.
- Be fluent in Portuguese and English (official certification required, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or CEFR B2+).
- Have strong leadership skills, particularly in managing research projects.
- Be affiliated with a COCOON Project partner institution.
Additional Advantage: Applicants with experience in sustainability consulting or policy development will have a competitive edge.
Apply for the COCOON Research Fellowship 2025
Applying for this fellowship involves a structured application process. Follow these steps to ensure a successful application:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Updated CV (including academic and professional experience)
- Motivation Letter (1-2 pages, detailing your research interests and how they align with the COCOON Project)
- Certified Copies of MSc Degree and Transcripts
- Language Proficiency Certificates (Portuguese & English)
- Recommendation Letters (optional but strongly encouraged)
- Submit Your Application:
- Email your application to [email protected] with the subject line: COCOON_COFAC_ISMAT_01/25.
- Ensure all documents are attached in PDF format.
- Deadline: December 31, 2025.
- Application Review & Interview:
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.
- The selection committee will assess academic qualifications, research experience, and alignment with the project goals.
- Final Selection & Fellowship Commencement:
- Selected candidates will receive an official offer letter.
- Fellowship starts in April 2025 at ISMAT, Portugal.
What You Will Work On?
As a COCOON Research Fellow, you will be expected to:
- Conduct research in Biodesign, Circular Economy, or Strategic Design.
- Collaborate with industry experts, policymakers, and academia.
- Contribute to policy recommendations for sustainable design.
- Present findings at international conferences and workshops.
- Manage living labs and test sustainable innovations.
- Publish academic papers and contribute to design journals.
Example Research Topic: “Integrating Biodesign with Circular Economy Principles to Develop Sustainable Packaging Solutions.”
FAQs
1. Can international students apply?
- Yes, but applicants must be affiliated with a COCOON partner institution and provide Portuguese language certification.
2. How many positions are available?
- Typically, 5-10 fellowships are awarded per year.
3. Is prior research experience required?
- Yes, applicants should have prior research experience in sustainability-related fields.
4. How long is the fellowship?
- The program lasts 10 months (April 2025 – December 2025).
5. Can I work part-time during the fellowship?
- No, fellows are expected to dedicate full-time effort to their research.
