Grant | Aerial Photogrammetry & Cultural Heritage

About the Grant

NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, is offering a research grant in Aerial Photogrammetry. This is a part of the project Digital Twins (2025.00122.DT4ST), funded by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), I.P., through PRR funds. This opportunity supports early-career researchers, including Master’s graduates enrolled in non-degree courses and doctoral students, focusing on Aerial Photogrammetry applied to Cultural Heritage.

The grant provides hands-on experience with UAV imaging, georeferenced 3D modelling, and integration of interior and exterior datasets to document and preserve heritage structures. With a six-month funded duration (renewable), the project promotes interdisciplinary collaboration between geosciences, environmental engineering, and digital heritage preservation. By combining advanced technological methods with societal impact, this grant aligns with national priorities in research innovation, cultural conservation, and high-precision geospatial studies, offering participants a unique opportunity to contribute to internationally relevant scientific work while developing specialised skills in heritage photogrammetry.

Grant Details

Grant Name: Research Grant – Digital Twins Project (Reference DT4ST/BI1)
Funding Agency/Institution: NOVA School of Science and Technology (FCT NOVA), Portugal, funded by Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), I.P.
Location: Caparica, Portugal
Research Field(s): Geosciences, Geological Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Computer Science
Grant Type: Individual Research Grant
Project Duration: 6 months (renewable within project limits)
Funding Amount: €1,309.64 per month
Grant Start Date (Expected): September 2025
Mode of Research: Individual with interdisciplinary collaboration
Application Type: Open Call

Research Areas Supported

Aerial Photogrammetry
Geosciences and Geology
Environmental Engineering
UAV Imaging Technologies
3D Modelling and Geospatial Analysis
Cultural Heritage Digital Preservation

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering or Geological Engineering
Career Stage: Early-career researcher, doctoral student, or master’s graduate enrolled in a non-degree course
Nationality/Residency: Open to all nationalities
Affiliation Requirements: Must be or become enrolled in a doctoral or non-degree programme at a higher education institution
Experience Level: Demonstrated portfolio in UAV-based imaging, 3D georeferenced models, UAV equipment handling, and high-precision GPS

Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience with RGB, multispectral, and LIDAR cameras
Valid UAV remote pilot certificate (A1/A3 minimum)
Strong interdisciplinary research skills

Not Eligible

Undergraduate students
Applicants without proof of enrolment in a doctoral or non-degree course

Grant Benefits

Funding Support: Monthly stipend of €1,309.64
Research Costs: Access to UAVs, GPS, multispectral and LIDAR equipment
Institutional Support: Hosted at NOVA LINCS and VICARTE, with collaboration from the Directorate-General for Cultural Heritage
Professional Development Opportunities: Training in digital heritage methodologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced photogrammetry techniques