Call for Applications: Fully Funded PhD Programmes at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy (2025/2026)
About the Programme
Sapienza University of Rome, one of Europe’s leading public universities, invites applications for admission to its fully funded PhD programmes for the 41st cycle (Academic Year 2025/2026). With 92 doctoral programmes available across diverse fields—including science, humanities, engineering, social sciences, and health sciences—this call presents an excellent opportunity for talented graduates from around the world to pursue high-level research training in Italy.
All PhD programmes are for a legal duration of three years, and many offer funding through scholarships fully financed either by Sapienza or through national and international research projects, including those under Italy’s PNRR initiatives. Candidates will benefit from Sapienza’s interdisciplinary doctoral schools, access to cutting-edge facilities, collaboration with public and private research bodies, and the dynamic academic environment of Rome.
This is a unique chance to advance your academic career in a globally recognised university committed to excellence in research, innovation, and internationalisation.
Programme Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Sapienza University of Rome
- Department/Faculty: Varies by programme (see Annex A in official call)
- Supervisor: As per programme (listed in individual programme websites)
- Location: Rome, Italy
- Start Date (Anticipated): November 2025
- Duration: 3 years
- Funding:
- Sapienza Scholarships: Fully-funded by the university
- Third-party Scholarships: Public or private funding bodies, departments, or national programmes
- Working Hours: Full-time commitment as per Italian PhD regulations
- Required Degree/Diploma:
- An Italian Laurea Magistrale, or
- A second-level degree from AFAM institutions, or
- An equivalent foreign Master’s degree recognised under the Bologna Process (EQF Level 7), with a final written thesis
Research Focus/Area
Research areas cover a wide range of disciplines across 92 PhD programmes, including:
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Natural and Life Sciences
- Engineering and Technology
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Economics, Law, and Political Sciences
- Interdisciplinary themes aligned with PNRR priorities
Each programme includes a description of curriculum options, themes, and specific project areas, See full list here:
🔗 List of PhD Programmes – 41st Cycle
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field by 31 October 2025
- Eligibility to pursue a PhD in the awarding country
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior research experience
- Strong academic record
- Familiarity with research tools, software, or thematic background relevant to chosen programme
Key Features of the Programme
- Multidisciplinary academic environment
- Access to international research networks
- Opportunities for conference participation and travel grants
- PhD students affiliated with doctoral schools
- Training in transferable and scientific skills
Application Process
How to Apply:
Apply online via Sapienza University’s application portal. Each programme has a dedicated link for specific admission criteria and evaluation processes (see Annex A).
Required Documents:
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research proposal or motivation letter (if required)
- Any additional documents listed in the specific PhD programme instructions
Important Dates
- Applications Open: June 2025
- Deadline: TBA (Check official site regularly)
- Interviews (if applicable): TBA by individual programmes
Where to Apply
- University Website: Home | Sapienza Università di Roma
- Official Notification: Sapienza PhD Call 2025/2026
- Application Portal: PhD: application form | Sapienza Università di Roma