Summary
The International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA) has announced admissions for its PhD (Philosophiae Doctor) Programs for Academic Year 2026/2027. The doctoral programs are offered across Physics, Mathematics, and Neuroscience disciplines and are open to applicants of all nationalities. Successful candidates will receive a fully funded scholarship worth €16,242.96 per year, along with several additional benefits including relocation support, housing assistance, laptop funding, training grants, and health insurance reimbursement.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | SISSA – International School for Advanced Studies |
| Degree Level | PhD (Doctoral Program) |
| Academic Year | 2026/2027 |
| Duration | 4 Years (possibility of completion after 3 years) |
| Scholarship Value | €16,242.96 per year |
| Location | Trieste, Italy |
| Eligible Applicants | Domestic and International Students |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
Designation
PhD Research Scholar (Philosophiae Doctor – PhD)
Research Areas
Physics Area
- Astrophysics and Cosmology
- Statistical and Molecular Biophysics
- Astroparticle and Gravitational Physics
- Statistical Physics
- Theoretical Particle Physics
- Data Science and Theory
- Theory and Numerical Simulation of Condensed Matter
Mathematics Area
- Mathematical Analysis, Models and Applications
- Mathematical Physics and Geometry
Neuroscience Area
- Functional and Structural Genomics
- Neurobiology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
Location
📍 Trieste, Italy
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants must:
- Hold, or be expected to obtain, a Master’s Degree (Laurea Magistrale) or an equivalent foreign qualification recognized by the selection committee.
- Complete the degree requirements before enrollment in the PhD program.
- Demonstrate strong motivation and aptitude for research.
- Be of any nationality and age (no age restrictions apply).
- Meet any additional course-specific requirements listed in the respective PhD program descriptions.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful candidates will receive:
- Annual PhD Scholarship: €16,242.96 (gross amount)
- Relocation Grant:
- €500 for students residing in EU countries
- €1,000 for students residing outside Europe
- Housing Support: €150 per month (eligible students in Trieste)
- Laptop Purchase Grant: Up to €400 (one-time contribution)
- Professional Development Grant: Up to €1,000 for third- and fourth-year students
- Health Insurance Reimbursement: Up to €700 annually for eligible international students
- Home Travel Support: Up to €500 for eligible non-EU students during the third and fourth years
- Additional protections and benefits related to maternity, paternity, parental leave, and medical leave according to SISSA regulations.
Job Description
Selected doctoral candidates will:
- Participate in advanced coursework and research activities.
- Conduct original research under faculty supervision.
- Complete examinations and academic evaluations required for progression.
- Contribute to scientific publications, seminars, and collaborative research projects.
- Work toward the completion of a doctoral dissertation leading to the PhD degree.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcript showing all examinations and grades
- Degree certificate or self-certification (if applicable)
- Master’s thesis or thesis abstract
- Valid identification document
- Optional recommendation letters (up to two referees can submit recommendations through the online platform)
Selection Process
The selection procedure may include:
- Academic record evaluation
- Written examination (depending on the program)
- Interview or oral examination
- Online/video-conference assessments where applicable
Candidates participating online must present a valid identity document during the examination process.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the SISSA admission portal:
Application Portal:
SISSA Online Application System (PICA)
Application Steps
- Access the online application portal.
- Select the desired PhD program.
- Complete the application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Print, sign, and upload the admission request form.
- Submit the application before the deadline of the chosen PhD program.
- Arrange recommendation letters (if applicable) within two days after the application deadline.
Important Dates
Enrollment Dates for Admitted Candidates
- 1 October 2026 – Physics, Mathematics, and Cognitive Neuroscience PhD programs
- 4 November 2026 – Functional & Structural Genomics and Neurobiology PhD programs
Last Date to Apply
📅 Deadline: Varies by PhD Program
Applicants must submit their online application by 13:00 (Italian Time) on the deadline specified for their chosen PhD course. Candidates should consult the individual program pages for exact closing dates.
For further information, applicants may contact the SISSA Academic and Student Affairs Office at phd@sissa.it.
