The University of Sassari has opened its call for applications for the 42nd-cycle PhD in Archaeology, History and Human Sciences in Sassari, Italy. The call offers four PhD positions: two funded scholarships and two university/self-financed positions, with the programme starting on 1 November 2026.
The PhD covers archaeology, history, cultural studies and educational sciences. Students can take part in laboratory and field research in Sardinia, with additional research activities in France, Spain, Romania and Tunisia.
Each scholarship provides €16,243 gross per year and may be renewed annually for up to three years, subject to satisfactory progress and funding conditions. Sardinia ESF+ scholarship recipients must complete at least six months of study and research abroad.
Applicants must hold a specialised or master’s degree, an equivalent qualification under the previous Italian system, or an equivalent foreign qualification. The application requires a research project, valid identification and relevant academic documents. Candidates may also submit up to five scientific publications and a CV.
Key Details
- Position: PhD in Archaeology, History and Human Sciences
- Institution: Università degli Studi di Sassari
- Location: Sassari, Sardinia, Italy
- Positions: 4 (2 funded scholarships and 2 university/self-financed)
- Research areas: Archaeology, History, Cultural Studies and Educational Sciences
- Scholarship: €16,243 gross per year, renewable annually for up to three years
- Scholarship benefit: 50% increase for eligible research periods abroad
- Programme start: 1 November 2026
- Application fee: €10
- Application deadline: 8 September 2026, 1:00 pm CET
- Tuition fees: €490 in year one and €474 in years two and three
- ESF+ requirement: At least 6 months of study and research abroad for eligible scholarship recipients
Research Area
The programme covers interdisciplinary research across the following areas:
- Archaeology
- History
- Cultural studies
- Educational sciences
- Field research
- Laboratory research
Qualification/Eligibility
- Applicants must hold a qualifying master’s, specialised or equivalent foreign degree.
- Candidates completing their degree by 31 October 2026 may apply conditionally and must provide proof by that date.
- ESF+ scholarship applicants must be under 35 when applying and meet the required conditions.
- Foreign qualifications must meet the University’s equivalence requirements.
- PhD students must attend the programme full-time and participate in its academic activities.
Financial Coverage / Funding Benefits
- 2 of the 4 positions provide scholarships of €16,243 gross per year, renewable annually for up to three years based on satisfactory progress.
- The other 2 positions are university/self-financed and do not include scholarships.
Scholarship Benefits
- Scholarship payments increase by 50% for eligible periods abroad, subject to funding and approval.
- ESF+ scholarship recipients must complete at least six months of study and research abroad.
- Scholarships generally cannot be combined with other scholarships or research grants, except where permitted by the call.
Doctoral Requirements
- Attend and participate in the PhD programme as a full-time student.
- Complete the required research and training activities.
- Participate in relevant scientific, laboratory and field research.
- Complete required research activities in Sardinia and, where applicable, abroad.
- Submit the required annual report on research activities and results.
- Meet the academic requirements for continuation in the programme.
- Complete and defend the doctoral thesis successfully.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the University of Sassari Esse3 system by 1:00 pm CET on 8 September 2026. Candidates must select the relevant PhD programme and scholarship category, upload the required documents and pay the €10 fee through PagoPA.
Required Documents
- Online application form
- Valid ID or passport
- Research project
- Relevant academic qualifications
- Foreign qualification documents, where applicable
- Up to five scientific publications and a numbered list, if submitted
- Evidence of eligible postgraduate qualifications
- CV, if provided
- Additional documents for conditional applications, where required
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 7 August 2026
- Application Deadline: 8 September 2026, 1:00 pm CET
- Interview Period: To be announced by the University of Sassari for the relevant PhD programme
- Expected Start Date: 1 November 2026
Candidates should complete the online application, upload all required documents and make the €10 payment before the deadline.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Academic jobs in Italy
- Funded PhD positions
- Archaeology academic jobs worldwide
- Humanities research positions
- Fully funded PhD opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many PhD positions are available?
The University of Sassari offers 4 positions, including 2 funded scholarships and 2 university/self-financed positions.
What is the scholarship amount?
Each funded scholarship provides €16,243 gross per year and may be renewed annually for up to three years.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 8 September 2026 at 1:00 pm CET.
What is the PhD programme start date?
The programme starts on 1 November 2026.
Is the PhD fully funded?
No. Only 2 of the 4 positions include scholarships. The other 2 positions are university/self-financed.
What is the application fee?
The application fee is €10, payable through PagoPA.
Is there an age limit for scholarship applicants?
Applicants for Sardinia ESF+ funded scholarships must be under 35 years old when applying.
Is research abroad required?
Yes. ESF+ scholarship recipients must complete at least six months of study and research abroad.
Institutional Overview
The University of Sassari is a public university in Sassari, Sardinia, Italy, offering undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral education across diverse academic disciplines. Its academic structure includes humanities, sciences, health, law and social sciences, with departments supporting teaching and scholarly work. The institution provides doctoral candidates with opportunities to develop research methods, undertake independent study and engage with academic staff. Its research activities extend across several fields and include collaborations with institutions in Italy and other countries. Doctoral training combines academic study with research activities, allowing candidates to build subject knowledge and practical research experience. The university also hosts laboratories, fieldwork and other scholarly activities linked to its programmes. Through its doctoral courses, the University of Sassari supports advanced study and prepares researchers for further academic and professional work.
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