The 'Pioneers'

Jeanne Pais

"This PhD program has been a transformative journey, unveiling new horizons and fueling my passion for understanding the dynamic interplay between diverse social sciences. It's been an incredible experience, made even more special by the unconditional support and insightful guidance of our exceptional faculty."

Martha Estrada

"Thanks to its multidisciplinary approach, the PhD in Population Sciences at ULisboa has not only allowed us to explore our research topics in greater depth, but also from a wide range of perspectives. Over the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow both academically and personally. The possibility of taking courses across different Institutes within the University, tailored to your research needs or specific interests, is incredibly enriching. Meeting fellow students and professors from diverse backgrounds and disciplines has made the academic journey even more stimulating.

I feel deeply fortunate to have won a scholarship that allows me to focus on my studies with greater freedom and peace of mind. This journey has been extraordinary — demanding, yes, but also full of meaning."

Rita C. Costa

"The PhD program has gathered an amazing group of academic experts in subjects that are deeply intertwined with Population Sciences. From Climate Change, to Economics, Migration and Public Policy. It has been an unique opportunity to learn with all the professors specially to broaden our horizons and perspectives. The interdisciplinary approach to Population Sciences is key to study Population Dynamics in an evidence-based manner."

Vikas Kalyankar

"My experience in the Ph.D. in Population Sciences program at the University of Lisbon, has been magnificently enriching. The program offers a conducive environment for research and learning. I've had the privilege of being mentored by venerable faculty members. Their guidance and support have been invaluable throughout my academic and research journey."

the 2nd cohort

"My research interests lie at the intersection of fertility decline, urbanization, and demographic transition theories, with a particular focus on the Indian context and broader global South dynamics. Pursuing a PhD in Population Science at the University of Lisbon has been a deeply enriching and transformative journey. The program’s academic diversity and interdisciplinary approach have broadened my understanding of complex demographic issues. I am privileged to be guided by an exceptional and supportive faculty whose expertise continues to inspire me. The PopTalk sessions have been especially impactful, fostering critical thinking and encouraging fresh, democratic perspectives on population studies. This experience has not only enhanced my research skills but also reshaped the way I view and engage with the world."

Deepshikha Dey

"The PhD in Population Sciences stands out for its interdisciplinary approach and the way it brings together different perspectives to tackle key population issues. This has been helpful for exploring topics like fertility and precariousness in my own research. Learning from professors with such varied backgrounds has given me new insights and helped shape my project in important ways. I also feel lucky to be part of the program’s wider research network, which connects people from top institutions across Europe and opens up great opportunities for collaboration and exchange."

Lucas Pitombeira

"My experience in the Ph.D. program has been highly rewarding. The dynamic, interdisciplinary environment encourages engagement with cutting-edge debates in population studies and policy analysis. The mentorship from esteemed faculty has been instrumental in refining my research approach, equipping me with the tools to make meaningful contributions to the field."

Moses Fodo

"The Ph.D. program I am currently pursuing is outstanding in its interdisciplinary approach. The guidance and support from the faculty, combined with the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions with professors, have been crucial in shaping my research. This program has been an enriching experience, providing me with fresh insights and a deeper understanding in the field of population science."

Liangqiu Han

"My interest in studying migration and how and why people move around the world lead me to this recent PhD in Population Sciences program by the University of Lisbon. Who knew how vast and impactful Population Sciences can be? The very nature of this PhD program fosters interdisciplinary studies and is complemented by the international profiles of the participants, which makes it one of the most innovative study experiences. I truly appreciate the constant support and availability of the professors in guiding me towards a successful reseach project."

Vera Fonseca

"Demography is like a spider in its web—barely visible, yet connected to everything. Exploring demography means casting a web that touches every academic discipline: from economics to biology to history. It does not matter what insect it catches in its web—the spider will feast upon it. I have always thought that spiders are cool. It is this interdisciplinary approach that makes the Population Sciences program at ULisboa so special: first-year students are introduced to a variety of relevant topics and develop their methodological skills, all while being guided along their own path to discover the research area in which they want to become experts."

Nicolas Müller

"My preliminary dissertation topic is Population Replacement Ideology Generating Social Psychological Fear, Adversely Impacting Economic Growth Benefits of Migration/Immigration: A Demographic Perspective. The PhD in Population Sciences at University of Lisbon, enables research that sheds light on how fear and anxiety generated by population replacement ideologies can undermine the positive contributions of immigrants to the economy. Examining this topic from a demographic perspective offers a unique lens to understanding the complex dynamics between population changes, social attitudes, and economic outcomes. Such a study can make significant contributions to the field of Population Sciences by providing empirical evidence on the social and economic impacts of population replacement ideologies."

Kelly Hewitt