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36 Funded PhD Scholarships in Italy 2025

Italy continues to stand out as a destination for cutting-edge academic research with a global impact. One of the most exciting opportunities currently available is the PhD in Sustainable Development and Climate Change coordinated by IUSS Pavia. This program is a transformative initiative that leverages a multi-, inter-, and trans-disciplinary approach to address global environmental and societal challenges. The PhD program is deeply aligned with the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and targets some of the world’s most pressing issues including climate resilience, green technology, sustainable ecosystems, and health equity.

This guide explores all the key aspects of the program, including the structure, funding opportunities, research themes, eligibility criteria, and the application process. With 36 fully funded scholarships for the 41st cycle (2025), this is a golden opportunity for motivated individuals committed to creating a sustainable future through impactful research.

Program Overview

Duration: 3 years
Language: Fully taught in English
Coordinator: IUSS Pavia, Italy
Network: Collaboration with over 50 public and private research institutions worldwide
Research Abroad: Minimum of 6 months and up to 12 months abroad
Faculty: Involves over 200 international researchers and professors
Training: 160+ hours of seminars and courses

This PhD program is structured to cultivate leadership in the field of sustainability. Its unique design ensures exposure to both theoretical foundations and practical applications, empowering scholars to influence environmental policy and innovation.

Research Structure and Curricula

The program is centered around the theme of Sustainable Development and Climate Change. It offers three interdisciplinary curricula:

CU-Alpha: Earth Systems and the Environment

Focused on physical and natural sciences including climate dynamics, geophysics, and ecosystems.

CU-Beta: Socio-Economic Risk and Impacts

Examines how climate change affects societies, economies, and policy-making processes.

CU-Gamma: Technology and Territory

Targets the role of technological innovations and spatial planning in advancing sustainability.

Key Research Topics

The program offers a wide variety of cutting-edge and interdisciplinary research topics. Some of the key themes include:

Sustainable forest management and climate-resilient ecosystems
Redefining hydrological extremes for improved modelling
Flood risk and urban resilience
ESG technologies and platform-based mapping
Climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies
Decarbonization of urban systems
Climate-resilient health care and digital neuropsychology
Food security and beef production systems optimization
Institutional and regulatory frameworks for sustainability
Urban air pollution and climate modelling
Gender mainstreaming in green transition
Satellite and Earth observation for sustainability

These topics demonstrate the program's comprehensive and inclusive approach, enabling researchers to explore sustainability from technical, societal, and humanistic perspectives.

Funding and Scholarships

For the 41st cycle (2025), the program offers 36 fully funded scholarships, each valued at €19,021.02 annually (gross, including national social security contributions). Here are the details:

IRPEF Exemption: Scholarships are tax-exempt but subject to INPS "gestione separata" contributions.
International Mobility Bonus: A 50% increase in the scholarship amount during international research periods (up to 12 months).
Research Budget: Minimum of 20% of the scholarship (€3,804.20/year) is reserved for research expenses starting from year two.
Insurance Coverage: Civil liability and accident insurance provided for the entire program duration.
Mobility Funds: Additional support for international research stays.

Note: Candidates who have previously received any form of doctoral scholarship (even partially) are ineligible.

Admission Requirements

The program is open to candidates of all nationalities and age groups who meet the following eligibility criteria:

Academic Qualifications

An Italian Laurea Magistrale/Specialistica/V.O. or equivalent foreign degree.
Candidates yet to obtain their degree may apply, provided they graduate by 1 November 2025.

Language Requirements

English proficiency at a B2 level or higher.
Italian is not mandatory but may be beneficial for selected research areas.

Supporting Documents

Curriculum Vitae
Valid identification document
Research proposal aligned with one of the program's topics
Letter of purpose/motivation
Academic transcripts
(Optional) Up to two reference letters
English proficiency certification or self-declaration
Degree equivalency documentation for foreign degrees

Application Process

Candidates must submit their applications via the PICA platform, including all required documents. Incomplete applications or those not meeting the requirements will be excluded. Applicants are expected to:

Select one of the three curricula
Optionally indicate a preferred research topic

Application Portal: Apply Now on PICA Platform

Download the Official Call: Call for 41st Cycle Applicants

Key Dates and Deadlines

Application Deadline: 22 August 2025, 1:00 PM CEST
Oral Exam Admission: 19 September 2025
Oral Exam Date: 6 October 2025 (via video conference)
Final Results Announcement: October 2025
Program Commencement: 1 November 2025

It is strongly recommended to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues and to ensure time for document verification.

Why Choose This Program?

Choosing the PhD in Sustainable Development and Climate Change at IUSS Pavia is more than just an academic pursuit—it’s a commitment to driving positive, global change. The program offers:

Interdisciplinary Learning: Combines science, technology, society, and policy.
Global Exposure: International research and collaborations.
World-Class Faculty: Mentorship by over 200 global experts.
Generous Funding: Covers living, research, and travel costs.
Career Preparation: Equips graduates for leadership roles in academia, government, NGOs, and industry.

Related PhD Opportunities

If you are looking for more opportunities, here are similar fully funded programs to consider:

Finland Government Scholarships

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PhD programs in Italy Sustainable development PhD Italy

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