R&D Manager
This is a high-impact leadership role designed for a PhD-level researcher who wants to build a brand-new innovation lab from scratch. You will lead the development of AI and Computer Vision technologies for the global sports and entertainment industry, backed by a self-funded and independent company. It is a unique hybrid of academic exploration and commercial application.
Magycal
Lisbon, Lisbon Region, Portugal · Posted 28 April 2026
The role
Overview
The hiring side
About Magycal
Magycal is a mid-sized employer working in sports & entertainment technology, based in Lisbon, Lisbon Region, Portugal.
Sports & Entertainment Technology
Medium
Lisbon, Lisbon Region, Portugal
Go deeper
See Magycal the way an insider would
Unlock company research, key people to know, recent moves, and how this role fits into their wider picture.
Research MagycalWhat they need
Requirements & Skills
Key Responsibilities
- Define and drive the scientific direction of Magycal Labs in partnership with the Scientific Board
- Manage the full lifecycle of R&D projects including planning, team coordination, and delivery
- Identify and apply for national and international funding (FCT, Horizon Europe)
- Recruit, mentor, and lead a multidisciplinary team of researchers
- Contribute technically to research tasks and publish findings in scientific venues
Essential
- PhD completed or in final stages of completion in Computer Science, Informatics, or a related technical field
- Demonstrated interest in AI, Machine Learning, Computer Vision, or Multimodal Interaction
- Strong aptitude for people management and research project coordination
- Proactive approach to identifying and pursuing national and European funding opportunities
- High level of autonomy and critical thinking capabilities
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
Preferred
- Proven track record of writing and submitting successful, competitive research proposals
- Deep technical expertise in one of the lab's core research pillars
- History of scientific publications or significant industry-based research contributions
Key Skills
Networking
People to Know
Sign up to discover hiring managers, team leads, and key people at Magycal.
Perks
Benefits & perks
- Founding leadership role in a brand-new R&D Lab
- Full autonomy to shape the scientific agenda
- Competitive salary exceeding standard Portuguese academic scales
- Opportunity to work with premier global sports and media brands
- Flexible daily management and high levels of professional freedom
- Support from an experienced Scientific Board and funding consultants
Next step
Apply now
Found via magycal.com