An innovative postgraduate program that creatively explores the future of food, drives Gastronomic Sustainability, promotes Food Innovation, and fosters a purpose-driven approach to Gastronomy.
October 13, 2026
6 months
B-learning After work
3.450€
The Postgraduate Program in Sustainable Gastronomy and Food Innovation is a pioneering course that combines creativity and sustainability with innovation in the food sector. With a strong focus on transforming gastronomy, this program fosters an innovative mindset by addressing key skills such as entrepreneurship, communication, leadership, and teamwork.
An innovative course where the future of food is creatively reimagined, driving Gastronomic Sustainability, promoting Food Innovation, and encouraging a purpose-driven approach to Gastronomy.
Through a dynamic approach based on the pillars of context, individual, community, accelerators, and action, participants are empowered to face contemporary food challenges and stand out in the gastronomic sector with innovative and sustainable solutions.
This postgraduate program is not limited to a single area of gastronomy, allowing it to be applied across different food-related sectors, from foodservice and the food industry to new product development and sustainable business models.
In this context, the ability to generate positive impact and innovation in the food system becomes essential, both for traditional businesses and disruptive projects. In the Postgraduate Program in Sustainable Gastronomy and Food Innovation, participants will gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a constantly evolving sector.
The Postgraduate Program in Sustainable Gastronomy and Food Innovation is a comprehensive course structured around thematic modules and has an approximate duration of six months. It covers a broad range of essential topics for professionals in gastronomy, foodservice, the food industry, and related sectors, promoting an innovative and sustainable approach.
Each module includes theoretical sessions complemented by an in-person practical component featuring a guest speaker, an industry reference, who will bring innovative perspectives and inspiration to participants. These sessions will be dynamic, encouraging knowledge sharing, networking, and a tasting experience designed in accordance with sustainable gastronomy principles. Upon completion of the program, participants will be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate.
The course begins with an Introduction to Sustainable Gastronomy and Food Innovation, where participants are introduced to the program’s objectives, structure, and methodologies. From the outset, participants will be challenged to identify a concept, idea, or innovative project they wish to develop, test, and/or validate throughout the course—either individually or in teams—applying course content from the very beginning.
In summary, the Postgraduate Program in Sustainable Gastronomy and Food Innovation offers a unique experience that combines theory and practice to prepare professionals to tackle contemporary food challenges and develop innovative solutions.
By the end of the program, participants will be equipped to lead sustainable gastronomic projects, drive innovation in the sector, and design food experiences aligned with future demands. This postgraduate course aims to serve as a platform to validate and scale innovative ideas, empowering participants to stand out in the market and contribute to a more responsible and impactful food system.
The learning objectives of the Postgraduate Program in Sustainable Gastronomy and Food Innovation aim to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to drive innovation in the food sector, lead with purpose, and stand out in a constantly evolving market. This program prepares professionals to rethink gastronomy through a sustainable and innovative lens, fostering a positive impact on society and the food industry.
This postgraduate program offers a holistic and hands-on vision of the future of gastronomy, preparing participants to become change agents in a sector that demands both innovation and a deep commitment to sustainability.
Proper training of gastronomy and food professionals is essential for building a more innovative and sustainable sector. These are the individuals who, by combining theory and practice, turn concepts into real, impactful solutions. More than just creating and managing businesses, these professionals play a key role in shaping memorable and responsible gastronomic experiences, influencing both the industry and the end consumer.
The Postgraduate Program in Sustainable Gastronomy and Food Innovation is particularly relevant for:
This program is designed for all those who want to be agents of change in gastronomy, transforming environmental and social challenges into opportunities for innovation and positive impact.
Visiting Assistant Professor at NOVA FCT and Researcher at LAQV/REQUIMTE
Graduated in Economics from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio, Brazil), and in Gastronomy and Culinary Arts from Estácio de Sá University (UNESA-RJ, Brazil). Completed a specialization course in Regional and Bistro French Cuisine at Alain Ducasse Formation (ADF, Paris).
Holds a Master’s degree in Gastronomic Sciences (NOVA FCT & ISA, University of Lisbon, Portugal) and a PhD in Food Science (NOVA FCT & University of Évora, Portugal), with a specialization in Food Science and Technology. Has approximately 20 years of experience in the fields of gastronomy and food science. In addition to having worked in various establishments, was the owner of a restaurant for two and a half years.
Currently teaches five subjects in the Master’s program in Gastronomic Sciences and is a researcher at the Molecular Gastronomy Laboratory (NOVA FCT). Research interests include topics such as seaweed in human nutrition, new sustainable protein sources, new product development, and molecular gastronomy.
Invited Lecturer at ESHTE & FCNAUP
Rui Mota is a chef, lecturer, and consultant in the field of contemporary gastronomy, with a particular focus on sustainability, innovation, and creative cuisine. Throughout his career, he has worked in some of the most prestigious Michelin-starred international restaurants, such as El Celler de Can Roca, The Fat Duck, ABaC, L’Air du Temps, and Vista, developing a rigorous technical approach combined with a strong sensory, scientific, and artistic component.
He currently teaches at several leading institutions, including the Estoril Higher Institute for Tourism and Hotel Studies and the Lisbon School of Hospitality and Tourism, where he covers subjects such as sustainable gastronomy, gastrophysics, physiology of taste, advanced culinary science and technology, menu planning and design, wine and beverage pairing, molecular gastronomy, and functional pastry.
In parallel, he develops consultancy projects, content creation, and gastronomic experiences for brands and events, exploring the connection between science, emotion, and culinary storytelling. His approach focuses on valuing ingredients, reducing waste, and creating innovative gastronomic experiences where technique and creativity come together to tell stories through food.
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