The IUSS Pavia PhD Scholarship 2026 provides 35 fully funded positions for the 42nd cycle of the National PhD Programme in Sustainable Development and Climate Change in Italy. This three-year doctoral programme, taught in English, is designed to train researchers capable of addressing the interconnected challenges of climate change, sustainability, technology, health, and social transformation. Selected candidates will work on specific research projects tied to one of three curricula and host universities across Italy.
The programme is coordinated by the Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS Pavia, a leading Italian higher education institution. It brings together a consortium of universities and research centres, including Politecnico di Milano, University of Naples Federico II, and the National Research Council of Italy. PhD-SDC emphasizes interdisciplinary training, combining scientific, economic, and policy perspectives to develop practical solutions for global environmental challenges.
IUSS Pavia PhD Scholarship Benefits
- Annual scholarship of €18,645.63, exempt from Italian income tax but subject to INPS social-security contributions (two-thirds paid by administration, one-third by candidate).
- Scholarship covers the full three-year doctoral programme, renewed annually upon positive academic progress review.
- 50% increase in scholarship for approved research periods abroad (normally six months, up to twelve months).
- Additional annual research budget of at least 20% of the scholarship value for authorized research activities.
- Insurance coverage against accidents and civil liability throughout the programme.
- International research exposure and access to over 160 hours of training and seminars.
IUSS Pavia PhD Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Open to all nationalities without age restrictions.
- Must hold an Italian Laurea Magistrale/Specialistica or equivalent foreign master’s degree recognized by the selection committee.
- Candidates expecting to graduate by November 1, 2026 may apply conditionally.
- Foreign qualification must be comparable in duration and content to an Italian master’s.
- Applicants must obtain a B2-level English certificate by October 31, 2027 (not required at application stage but recommended).
- No specific age limit; selection based on academic qualifications, research proposal, and interview.
How to Apply for IUSS Pavia PhD Scholarship
- Access the official PICA application platform for the 42nd Cycle.
- Register or log in, then fill in personal and contact details.
- Select preferred curriculum and up to three research topics.
- Upload required documents: CV (max 2000 words), research proposal (1000-2500 words), letter of purpose (max 500 words), ID, degree certificates/transcripts.
- Pay the non-refundable €30 application fee via PagoPA.
- Sign and submit the application; verify receipt of confirmation email.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview (Microsoft Teams) in English.
- Confirm acceptance of an offered position within 48 hours via email.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the IUSS Pavia PhD Scholarship 2026. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, application procedures, and important deadlines.
What is the IUSS Pavia PhD Scholarship 2026?
It is a fully funded doctoral programme offering 35 positions in Sustainable Development and Climate Change, coordinated by IUSS Pavia. The three-year PhD is taught in English and provides an annual stipend, research budget, and insurance.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
It is open to all nationalities and ages, provided you hold a master’s degree equivalent to an Italian Laurea Magistrale. Conditional applications are accepted if you graduate by November 1, 2026.
What does the scholarship cover?
Each scholar receives an annual stipend of €18,645.63, a research budget of at least 20% of the stipend, accident and liability insurance, and a 50% increase when conducting approved research abroad.
When is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline is August 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central European Summer Time. Late submissions are not accepted.
Is there an application fee?
Yes, a non-refundable fee of €30 must be paid through the PagoPA system before submission.
How is the selection process conducted?
Selection involves an evaluation of qualifications (CV and research proposal, max 60 points) followed by an online interview in English (max 40 points). Candidates must score at least 35/60 in the first stage to proceed.
Do I need an English certificate to apply?
No, a formal certificate is not required at application, but successful candidates must obtain a B2-level English certificate by October 31, 2027, the end of the first academic year.
Can I choose my research topic?
Yes, you must select a specific research project from the 2026 catalogue. Your proposal should align with that topic, and you may indicate up to three preferences.
Where will the PhD activities take place?
While IUSS Pavia coordinates the programme, your primary host institution will be one of 18 participating universities or research centres, depending on the chosen project.
What happens after I am selected?
You will receive an offer by email and must confirm acceptance within 48 hours. Non-EU students must then apply for a study visa via Universitaly and a residence permit upon arrival.
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