Summary

The Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM), Italy has announced 50 fully funded PhD scholarships for the academic year 2026/2027 (42nd Cycle) across 10 interdisciplinary doctoral programs. The PhD programs offer advanced research opportunities in areas including archaeology, oncology, space science, genomics, mathematical sciences, risk modelling, molecular sciences, humanities, law, and cultural studies.

Successful candidates will receive a 4-year doctoral scholarship, research funding support, international research opportunities, and access to a high-level academic and scientific training environment. No age or citizenship restrictions apply.

50 Fully Funded PhD Scholarships 2026/27 at Scuola Superiore Meridionale, Italy

Scholarship Details

Designation

PhD Research Scholar / Doctoral Student

Available PhD Programs & Research Areas

Research Areas

The scholarship covers multidisciplinary research fields including:

• Archaeology and Cultural Heritage
• Oncology and Translational Medicine
• Genomics and Experimental Medicine
• Cosmology and Space Science
• Artificial Intelligence and Mathematical Modelling
• Advanced Materials and Technologies
• Molecular Chemistry and Earth Sciences
• Risk Engineering and Complex Systems
• Global History and Governance
• Law, Diversity and Inclusion Studies
• Italian and Romance Studies

Location

Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM)
Naples, Campania, Italy

The doctoral programs combine coursework and research activities. Students will receive scientific training, participate in international collaborations, and are expected to complete research periods at qualified foreign universities or research institutions.

Eligibility / Qualification

Applicants must possess one of the following qualifications:

• Italian Laurea Specialistica / Laurea Magistrale degree.
• Old system 4 or 5-year Italian Laurea degree.
• Equivalent foreign Master’s degree obtained after a minimum 5-year academic cycle.

Additional Eligibility Conditions

• No restriction on age or nationality.
• Candidates completing their qualifying degree before PhD enrolment may also apply.
• Applicants who already hold a PhD degree from an Italian university are not eligible.
• Candidates who have previously received an Italian PhD scholarship are not eligible.

Language Requirements

• Good knowledge of at least one foreign language required.
• English proficiency required for programs including:
  • GEM
  • GHG
  • LOSPD
  • MERC
  • MOSES
  • MPHS
  • SPACE
  • CTO

Job Description / PhD Research Activities

Selected PhD scholars will:

• Conduct independent doctoral research in their selected field.
• Attend advanced doctoral courses and scientific training programs.
• Develop research methodologies and contribute to academic publications.
• Prepare scientific reports, research proposals, and doctoral dissertations.
• Participate in seminars, workshops, and international collaborations.
• Spend at least two semesters in approved foreign universities or research institutions.
• Defend their PhD thesis to obtain the Doctoral degree.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected candidates will receive:

Financial Support

• €19,000 annual scholarship for 4 years.
• Monthly payment throughout the doctoral period.
• Up to 50% scholarship increase during approved research stays abroad.
• Additional research allowance:
  • 10% of annual scholarship amount in first year.
  • 20% annually in the remaining three years.

Other Benefits

• No tuition fees for PhD enrolment.
• International research opportunities.
• Access to advanced academic training.
• Social security registration through INPS.
• Fully funded doctoral education.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit:

1. Copy of valid identity document/passport.
2. Curriculum Vitae (SSM format).
3. Master’s thesis or equivalent research experience description.
4. Abstract of Master’s thesis/research experience.
5. Academic transcripts and degree records.
6. Personal statement explaining:
   • Research interests
   • Motivation for applying
   • Reasons for selecting the doctoral program
7. Scientific report or research proposal (depending on selected program).
8. Up to three scientific publications (if available).
9. Signed declaration of authenticity.
10. Recommendation letters from two academic referees (optional but recommended).

Selection Process

The selection is based on competitive evaluation:

Stage 1: Document Evaluation

Assessment of:

• Academic qualifications
• Research experience
• Scientific report/research proposal
• Personal statement

Stage 2: Oral Interview

Shortlisted candidates will participate in an interview assessing:

• Research potential
• Scientific knowledge
• Motivation
• Language skills

Final ranking will be prepared based on:

• Academic evaluation and research proposal: 60 points
• Oral interview: 40 points

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their application online through the official application portal:

Application Portal:
https://pica.cineca.it/ssm/dottoratoxlii-ssm/domande/

Applicants may apply for multiple PhD programs by submitting separate applications for each program.

Applications submitted through any other method will not be considered.

Important Dates

Last Date to Apply

📅 27 August 2026 (14:00 CET)

Apply before the deadline to join a fully funded PhD program at Scuola Superiore Meridionale, Italy, with opportunities for international research training and academic development.

Link