From a Master’s to a PhD, from research to innovation: what paths can you take?
On September 22 and 23, 2026, the University of Lisbon will host “Motivational Tracks – From Master’s Level to PhD,” an initiative of the Unite! Widening project, hosted by partners LISPOLIS and AAVANZ that aims to bring together students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and the business sector.
Over the course of two days, participants will have the opportunity to explore different pathways linking higher education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship through the experiences of professionals who have transformed research activities into projects, companies, and innovative solutions.
The initiative is primarily aimed at master’s students, though it is also open to doctoral students, and is particularly relevant for those considering an academic career, conducting applied research, or exploring opportunities in entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Motivational Tracks aim to show that the path from a master’s degree to a Ph.D. and into the professional world does not have to be linear. Through direct contact with entrepreneurs and professionals involved in research and innovation, students will be able to discover different possibilities for their future.
Four areas, two days, different routes
🧬 September 22 | Health & Biotech | Hosted by LISPOLIS
10h00 – 12h30 (Light Lunch & Informal Networking) | LISPOLIS
The morning session will focus on the fields of Health & Biotech, exploring career paths and opportunities at the intersection of research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Participants will have the opportunity to hear about the experiences of:
💻 September 22 | Digital & Autonomous Technologies | Hosted by LISPOLIS
12h30 (Light Lunch & Informal Networking) – 17h00 | LISPOLIS
This afternoon, the focus will be on Digital & Autonomous Technologies, with professionals and entrepreneurs sharing their experiences in developing innovative projects and solutions.
Participants include:
🌍 September 23 | Urban & Resources Sustainability | Hosted by AAVANZ
10h00 – 12h30 (Light Lunch & Informal Networking) | TTC@ULisboa
The second day begins with a session dedicated to the challenges and opportunities in the areas of Urban & Resources Sustainability.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about different perspectives on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship through the experiences of:
♻️ September 23 | Circular Economy & Materials | Hosted by AAVANZ
12h30 (Light Lunch & Informal Networking) – 16h30 | TTC@ULisboa
The afternoon session will be dedicated to the Circular Economy & Materials, exploring the potential of research and innovation to create new solutions, technologies, and business models.
Participants:
- Honorata Pereira | former CTO/Founder Bioworld – Social Impact
- Francisco Machado | Easy Harvest
From Inspiration to Direct Contact
Each session includes inspirational moments with the guests, an interactive “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) discussion, and an opportunity for direct interaction through a 1-on-1 Speed-Networking session.
During this networking session, students will be able to speak individually with the speakers and entrepreneurs, ask specific questions, share their interests, and learn more about different professional and academic paths.
Designed with strong ties to industry and research and innovation ecosystems, the Motivational Tracks aim to break down barriers between academia and the private sector, encouraging more fluid pathways between master’s programs, doctoral studies, applied research, and entrepreneurship.
This is an opportunity to discover new paths, meet people who have already turned research into innovation, and think about the next step in your journey.
Information
Dates: September 22 and 23, 2026
Target audience: Master’s and doctoral students
Organizer: Unite! Widening Project, hosted by partners LISPOLIS and AAVANZ
September 22
📍 LISPOLIS – Estrada do Paço do Lumiar, n.º 44, 1600-546 Lisboa
September 23
📍 TTC@ULisboa – Centro de Transferência de Tecnologia e Valorização do Conhecimento da Universidade de Lisboa
Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 2, 1649-003 Lisboa
🚇 Metro: Cidade Universitária
Participation is free, but registration is required.
