CEMF.UP in 2025-2029

As we enter a new pluriannual cycle of FCT funding, we are excited to share our objectives, strategies, initiatives, and targets in our activity plan for 2025-2029. This plan introduces the rebranded Centre for Economics, Management, and Finance (CEMF.UP), a name that better reflects our expanded scope and ambitions.

CEMF.UP’s primary objectives remain focused on advancing knowledge, impacting academia and society, and enhancing education and training. Our first objective is to develop breakthrough research that garners national and international recognition. This will be supported by key resource provisions and incentive schemes. Our enhanced seminar series (ECO, FIN, MaR, and WiP) and advanced courses will foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Extensive computational and data resources will be available through an upgraded Data Center and a new Experimental Lab. Additionally, rewarding top-tier publications with extra funding and improving administrative capabilities for funding applications will further nurture high-quality research.

The second objective is to disseminate research results widely and engage effectively with academic, political, and public sectors. Our strategy includes a multifaceted communication approach featuring a revamped website and enhanced social media presence. CEMF.UP plans to allocate more resources for organizing international workshops and conferences. Updating and expanding the CEF.UP-NIPE rankings website is also part of this strategy, aiming to maintain the centre’s relevance and visibility in the academic community.

The third objective focuses on providing state-of-the-art training for both young and mature researchers. In addition to enhancing our PhD programs with advanced courses and workshops on current and emerging topics in economics, finance, and management, the center will continue its fellowship programs for PhD students and offer robust support to post-doctoral researchers. This ensures they have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive in their academic careers. Hosting long-term visiting scholars and post-doctoral researchers will enrich the academic environment and foster knowledge exchange.

Below, you will find more information on a few of our key initiatives and targets for 2025-2029

Experimental Lab
A new Experimental Lab will enable researchers to conduct controlled experiments that replicate real-world scenarios and theoretical models. The lab will include computers with statistical software, experimental rooms, survey tools, and other necessary materials, such as decision-making scenarios and business simulations. This will significantly enhance the center’s research capabilities, especially in decision-making studies, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across economics, finance, and management.

Science and communication manager
For the first time, CEMF.UP will hire a highly qualified science and communication manager. This manager will coordinate scientific project proposals, improve internal communication, and streamline processes, fostering a dynamic research environment. Additionally, the manager will implement a comprehensive communication strategy, managing the center’s new website and social media to increase visibility and attract non-FCT funding.

Competence Centre on Aging
CEMF.UP is launching a strategic initiative to develop a competence center focused on the Economics of Aging. This includes hiring a highly qualified researcher specializing in this field to lead innovative research and interdisciplinary collaboration, addressing the challenges of an aging population, and informing public policies. Additionally, CEMF.UP will support and develop international research networks, enhancing cross-European collaborations and contributing to the understanding of a multi-age workforce.

Strategic Hiring
CEMF.UP plans to strategically hire both senior and early-career researchers in key fields such as the Economics of Aging, Microdata and Economics, and Quantitative Methods for Management. This aims to drive interdisciplinary research, inform public policies, and advance academic excellence. Additionally, the hiring strategy includes a clear trajectory towards permanent positions, supported by the FCT-Tenure program, to nurture career prospects and professional development for researchers.