PhD Cultural & Environmental Heritage Bologna 2025

About the Program

The University of Bologna is accepting applications for the 41st cycle PhD programme in Cultural and Environmental Heritage. This fully funded, three-year doctoral programme, starting on 1 November 2025, offers research in archaeology, anthropology, and science communication through the ERC Synergy Project “Last Neanderthals”. Coordinated by Prof. Donatella Restani, students will explore interdisciplinary methods for the preservation, communication, and rights of cultural heritage. Courses and research activities are conducted in Italian and English, with opportunities for outreach, public engagement, and collaboration with international scholars. The programme emphasizes innovation in heritage science and technology, providing a unique environment for students to advance their academic careers while contributing to high-impact research.

Program Details

Position: Fully Funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
Institution: University of Bologna
Department/Faculty: Department of Cultural Heritage
Coordinator: Prof. Donatella Restani
Location: Ravenna, Italy
Start Date (Anticipated): 01 November 2025
Duration: 3 years
Funding: Scholarship funded by the Department of Cultural Heritage through the ERC Synergy Grant “Last Neanderthals”, €16,243/year
Working Hours: Full-time
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree or equivalent

Research Focus / Area

Cultural and Environmental Heritage
Archaeology, Anthropology, and Science Communication
Heritage Preservation and Rights
Science and Technology Applications for Cultural Heritage

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree or equivalent in Archaeology, Anthropology, Cultural Heritage, or related disciplines
Research proposal in English or Italian
Preferred Qualifications:
Research experience in heritage science or archaeology
Strong academic record and publications
Knowledge of outreach strategies and science communication

Key Features of the Program

Interdisciplinary research in archaeology and heritage science
Participation in the ERC Synergy Project “Last Neanderthals”
Oral examination and evaluation of qualifications and research proposal
Opportunity to present at international conferences
Italian and English language research environment

Application Process

How to Apply: Submit your application via the University of Bologna online portal.

Required Documents:

Valid identity document
Curriculum Vitae (European format)
First and second cycle degree certificates and transcripts
Multi-annual research proposal (≤20,000 characters)
Thesis abstract (≤5,000 characters)
Maximum two reference letters
Personal statement (≤3,000 characters)
Publications and other relevant supporting documents

Important Dates

Applications Open: Now
Deadline: 07 October 2025
Qualifications Evaluation Results: 14 October 2025
Oral Examination: Starting 17 October 2025, 10:00 a.m. CEST (in-person in Ravenna or via Microsoft Teams)
Programme Start: 01 November 2025