Join the Motivational Tracks – From Master Level to PhD, featuring 4 interactive sessions across different fields, taking place on 22 and 23 September 2026 in Lisbon 

Are you considering a PhD, exploring a career in research, or curious about how research can lead to innovation and entrepreneurship?

Organised by the Unite! Widening project, and hosted localy by LISPOLIS and AAVANZ, these events are designed to help Master's and PhD students explore different academic and professional pathways, connecting research, innovation, entrepreneurship and industry.

Across four thematic sessions, you will have the opportunity to hear directly from entrepreneurs and professionals with experience in research and innovation, ask your questions during interactive “Ask Me Anything” sessions, and connect with speakers through 1-on-1 Speed-Networking.

The sessions will focus on:

🧬 22 September – Health & Biotech
📍 LISPOLIS | 09:30–12:30 (lunch included)

💻 22 September – Digital & Autonomous Technologies
📍 LISPOLIS | 12:30 (lunch included)–17:00

🌍 23 September – Urban & Resources Sustainability
📍 TTC@ULisboa | 10:00–12:30 (lunch included)

♻️ 23 September – Circular Economy & Materials
📍 TTC@ULisboa | 12:30 (lunch included) –17h00

Locations:
LISPOLIS:  Estr. Paço do Lumiar 44, 1600-546 Lisboa
TTC@ULisboa: Av. Prof. Gama Pinto 2, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal

Whether you are considering an academic research career, interested in applied research, or exploring entrepreneurial and innovative opportunities, this is an opportunity to discover new possibilities, learn from real-life experiences and expand your network.

Participation is free, but registration is required.

Fast Guidance for Networking (save this for future reference)

Networking is fundamentally a conversation to discover common interests and build authentic relationships, it is not a high-pressure sales pitch. 

Here are practical, simple tips to guide you through the event:

• Reframe the Concept: Remember that networking is simply a two-way conversation to learn about others. Approach it with curiosity about their experiences and goals rather than pressure to "sell" yourself. Learn more about managing this mindset in the guide How to Network When You're Socially Anxious (principles are good for the non-anxious too).
• Prepare a Simple Introduction: Create a quick, comfortable elevator pitch. State your name, what you are studying, and what interests you about the event’s themes (accordingly to which Track ou Tracks you are attending).
• Have Go-To Conversation Starters: Prepare 2 or 3 open-ended questions to break the ice easily, such as:
• • "What projects or challenges are currently keeping you busy in your field?"
  • "What advice would you give to someone transitioning from a Master's to a PhD?"
  • "What inspired you to pursue a career in this sector?"
• Shift Your Focus (Active Listening): You don't have to carry the entire conversation. Ask a question and practice active listening. Showing genuine curiosity relieves the pressure to perform and makes the other person feel valued. And take notes to review later.
• Manage Your Social Energy: Set small, realistic goals (e.g., speaking to at least 2 speakers or students). Give yourself permission to take brief breaks (e.g., step out for fresh air or grab water/coffee) to recharge.
• Use the Buddy System: If walking into a room feels intimidating, connect with another student at the entrance or register and attend with another classmate. You can support each other, make introductions, and act as conversation anchors.

Master the Follow-Up: If you had a good conversation, ask for their preferred contact method (LinkedIn or email). Send a short, personalized follow-up message within 24 to 48 hours to thank them and mention a specific point you discussed to solidify the connection.