The University of Urbino Carlo Bo, one of Italy’s most prestigious institutions of higher learning, has officially announced the opening of applications for its 2025/2026 PhD programs. Known for its academic excellence and strong commitment to research, the university offers multiple fully funded doctoral scholarships across various disciplines. These programs are open to both Italian and international students, with several positions specifically reserved for candidates holding foreign qualifications.
Located in the picturesque and historic city of Urbino—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—this academic opportunity combines high-level research training with the cultural richness of Italy. If you’re an aspiring researcher looking to advance your academic journey in Europe, this could be the perfect opportunity.
📅 Key Dates
- Call Opens: May 8, 2025
- Application Deadline: June 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM CEST
All applications must be submitted through the University of Urbino’s official online application portal. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
🎓 Available PhD Programs and Scholarships
The University of Urbino is offering four fully structured doctoral programs for the academic year 2025–2026, each comprising 9 fully funded scholarships and 1 position without funding. Out of these, 2 scholarships per program are reserved for international students or those with qualifications obtained abroad.
🔬 1. PhD in Biomolecular and Health Sciences
- Department: Biomolecular Sciences (DISB)
- Coordinator: Prof. Ferdinando Mannello
Number of Positions:
- 9 scholarships (2 for international candidates)
- 1 unfunded position
Research Areas:
- Molecular biology
- Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
- Pharmacology
- Preventive and clinical health sciences
Ideal Candidates: Graduates in biology, biomedical sciences, biotechnology, medicine, or pharmacy aiming to pursue careers in academia, health research, or pharmaceutical industries.
🌍 2. PhD in Global Studies: Economy, Society and Law
- Department: Economics, Society, Politics
- Coordinator: Prof. Antonello Zanfei
Number of Positions:
- 9 scholarships (2 for international candidates)
- 1 unfunded position
Research Areas:
- International economics
- Comparative law and global governance
- Sociology and political science
- Sustainable development and digital transition
Ideal Candidates: Students with a background in economics, law, political science, or international relations seeking careers in policy analysis, NGOs, academia, or international institutions.
🔬 3. PhD in Research Methods in Science and Technology
- Department: Pure and Applied Sciences (DISPEA)
- Coordinator: Prof. Luca Lanci
Number of Positions:
- 9 scholarships (2 for international candidates)
- 1 unfunded position
Research Areas:
- Data science and AI
- Physics and mathematical modeling
- Chemistry and environmental sciences
- Computer science applications
Ideal Candidates: Applicants with academic training in STEM fields aiming to develop innovative solutions to global scientific and technological challenges.
📚 4. PhD in Humanistic Studies
- Department: Communication Sciences, Humanities and International Studies (DISCUI)
- Coordinator: Prof. Liana Lomiento
Number of Positions:
- 9 scholarships (1-2 for international candidates)
- 1 unfunded position
Curricula and Scholarship Distribution:
- Communication Sciences and Digital Culture: 1 open + 1 international
- Ancient Text Sciences: 2 open + 1 international
- Historical Sciences in Contemporary Age: 2 open
- Human Sciences: 2 open
- Unfunded: 1 position in Human Sciences
Ideal Candidates: Those with a background in humanities, cultural studies, media, digital communication, philosophy, literature, or history.
Required Documents
All documents must be uploaded to the university portal in PDF format. If the original documents are not in English or Italian, a certified translation is required.
- Valid Identity Document or Passport
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Certificates
- Official Transcripts
- Research Proposal (aligned with the chosen program)
- Motivation Letter
- References (contact details of up to 3 referees)
- Academic Publications or Theses (optional but recommended)
- Language Proficiency Certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent if applicable)
Selection Process
The selection process includes a preliminary evaluation of submitted documents followed by an interview.
Phase 1: Evaluation of Qualifications and Research Proposal
- Academic records and degree relevance
- Quality and feasibility of the proposed research
- Alignment with the PhD program’s objectives
- Motivation and potential for academic success
Phase 2: Interview
- Conducted online or in-person (depending on the applicant's location)
- Assesses research aptitude, communication skills, and program alignment
- Results and rankings will be published on the university’s website
Financial Support and Benefits
Each fully funded scholarship awarded by the University of Urbino provides the following:
- Tuition Fee Waiver: 100% coverage of tuition and enrollment fees
- Monthly Stipend: Approx. €1,200 per month (renewable annually upon satisfactory progress)
- Research Mobility Funding: Additional funding for international research collaboration or internships abroad
- Access to Research Infrastructure: Use of university labs, libraries, and software tools
- Academic and Career Development: Seminars, conferences, and soft skill training
These benefits aim to remove financial barriers and allow doctoral candidates to focus exclusively on their research.
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Guide:
Why Choose the University of Urbino?
The University of Urbino Carlo Bo is an established public university with a strong reputation for interdisciplinary research and high-impact publications. Here are some compelling reasons to choose Urbino:
- Prestigious Legacy: A centuries-old institution known for producing notable scholars
- International Environment: Multicultural student body and faculty with global research collaborations
- Cultural Setting: Located in Urbino, a city rich in Renaissance heritage, offering a peaceful and inspiring academic atmosphere
- Research Excellence: State-of-the-art laboratories and world-class faculty
- Interdisciplinary Focus: Programs that connect science, humanities, and technology
- Language Support: Several programs are conducted in English; Italian language support available for international students
Additional Tips for Applicants
- Prepare Early: Start collecting documents and drafting your research proposal well before the deadline
- Customize Your Application: Tailor your motivation letter and proposal to reflect the themes and objectives of the selected PhD program
- Consult Former Alumni: Reach out to previous international scholars at Urbino to gain insights
- Practice for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your research interests, methodology, and academic motivation clearly
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Contact Information
For detailed questions about the application process, eligibility, or documents, please contact the University of Urbino Doctoral Office:
- Email: [Available on the official university portal]
- Phone: [Institutional contact number]
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (CEST)
🔗 CLICK HERE TO APPLY NOW