The first MAP-fis PhD research conference was held in University of Minho in the period 16-17 January 2009. The conference had about 40 presentations by PhD students of the three universities involved in the the MAP-fis joint doctoral Programme, focusing on its general research topics. For more information see "MAP-fis conference 2009/2009".

The first session of the MAP-fis Essay presentations was held in University of Aveiro on 30 March 2009. The Essay is devoted to individual guided study for preparation of a thesis proposal.