Internationalisation and knowledge sharing are fundamental pillars of the International PhD in Applied Psychology: Adaptation and change in contemporary societies, an innovative programme developed by the Faculty of Education and Psychology of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (FEP-UCP), in partnership with Nottingham Trent University (UK) and the Universitat Ramon Llull (Spain).
Recently, PhD students Ana Moreno and Pedro Ribeiro, who are also part of the Human Neurobehavioural Laboratory, spent time at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) to immerse themselves in the academic environment of this university, which is a partner in the PhD programme. The main aim of the visit was to support the development of their doctoral projects and to get to know the academic environment and research infrastructures of this English university.
Integration and collaboration in NTU's academic environment
Ana Moreno, who is in the final stages of her PhD, took the opportunity to consolidate her research and meet face-to-face with her NTU supervisor, Rowena Hill. During her visit, she took an active part in the academic life of NTU's School of Psychology, participating in the discussion of scientific posters, lectures and meetings with experts such as Ian Hesketh, a British police psychologist. She also had the opportunity to visit the Faculty's infrastructure and laboratories and to participate in team-building activities.
Pedro Ribeiro, on the other hand, worked with his NTU supervisor to prepare a scientific article for publication as part of his PhD, and established partnerships with colleagues at the English university for future studies.
The advantages of international stays
Both doctoral students highlight the many benefits of the international placements offered by the doctoral programme.
For Ana Moreno, the experience offered not only the development of technical skills, but also the creation of a diverse network of contacts with people from different cultures and fields of expertise. “The relationship between different faculties and cultures creates synergies that enrich research work and open doors to new opportunities," she says.
Pedro Ribeiro adds that working with experts from other fields and academic backgrounds has been particularly enriching. “It was good to be able to share perspectives on my work with people from outside the region, and also to be able to talk about studies taking place there,” he adds.
A unique opportunity for PhD students
For Ana Moreno, being part of this international PhD programme is a “valuable and unmissable opportunity” that offers a rich cultural and professional experience.
Pedro Ribeiro, on the other hand, appreciates the access to a support team of specialists in different fields, which is often not available in the Universidade Católica context or in the national context. The doctoral student stresses the importance of making the most of the support team: "My message to future candidates for this doctorate is clear: make the most of your supervisory team and learn as much as you can from your supervisors.”
The visit to Nottingham Trent University is another example of the positive experience that the International PhD in Applied Psychology offers its students.
Want to know more about the programme? Visit the International PhD in Applied Psychology page.
