Conference topic Scientific Literacy: Contributions from the History and Philosophy of Science
Conference date July 6th - July 10th 2026
Conference venue Lisbon, Portugal
Conference Chair: Cláudia Faria; Conference Co-Chair: Ricardo L. Coelho
Plenary Session
Carlos Fiolhais and Gilberto Pereira
“History of Physics at the University of Coimbra”
This plenary Sessiin will examine the history of physics at the University of Coimbra, with particular emphasis on the eighteenth-century Physics Cabinet.
Special attention will be given to the scientific instruments associated with the Cabinet, many of which are now preserved in the Science Museum of the University of Coimbra. As part of the lecture, the speakers will present a selection of these instruments, thereby offering a rare opportunity to consider them not only as museum objects but also as material witnesses to the development of scientific teaching in Portugal.
Originally brought to Coimbra in the context of the Pombaline Reform, these instruments formed part of a broader project of pedagogical and scientific modernization. However, with the subsequent decline of experimental teaching and research after the departure of the Marquis of Pombal, many of them fell into disuse. This historical circumstance, while reflecting a period of reduced experimental activity, also contributed to their remarkable preservation. As a result, Portugal today possesses one of the most important collections of eighteenth-century scientific instruments.
IHPST is offering 10 scholarships for PhD candidates, each covering the full conference registration fee for the 18th IHPST Biennial Conference.
Please send the following documents (PDF preferred)
Short CV summary (max. 1 page)
Motivation letter (max. 1 page)
Candidates must have a communication accepted to be considered.
Applications should be sent to: ihpst2026lisbon@ie.ulisboa.pt with the subject line: “PhD Scholarship Application – [Full Name]”
Deasdline: April, 30
Successfull applicants will be notified by email after the review process.
