The University of Naples L’Orientale in Italy is offering a PhD in Asian, African and Mediterranean Studies for the 2026 cycle. The doctoral call provides 9 places, including 7 scholarship-supported positions, for applicants working in archaeology, philology, linguistics, literature, history, culture and society across Asia, Africa and the Mediterranean. The doctorate lasts three years and covers subjects within the humanities and social sciences.
The PhD examines Asian, African and Mediterranean countries through three curricula: Archaeology, Philology–Linguistics–Literature, and History, Culture and Society. Each curriculum allows applicants to pursue a specialised field based on their chosen academic subject.
The Archaeology curriculum covers archaeological investigation through research methods, fieldwork, laboratory activities and museum collection studies. The other curricula focus on written, oral and visual texts, languages, historical developments, cultural practices, religious studies, anthropology, arts and social sciences.
The doctoral themes include archaeological evidence, textual analysis, linguistic traditions, historical interpretation and cultural analysis from ancient periods to modern and contemporary contexts. Applicants must submit a proposal related to their chosen curriculum and complete the admission process. Eligible candidates from humanities and social science disciplines are evaluated through qualifications, language skills, previous experience and the submitted proposal.
Programme Overview
- Position: PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Official Reference Number: PhD Programme in Asian, African and Mediterranean Studies – 42nd Cycle
- Institution: Università degli Studi di Napoli “L’Orientale” (University of Naples L’Orientale, UNIOR), Italy
- Department: Department of Asia, Africa and Mediterranean Studies
- Faculty: Not specified
- Research Group: PhD Programme in Asian, African and Mediterranean Studies
- Coordinator: Prof. Ignazio Tantillo
- Location: Naples, Italy
- Duration: 3 years
- Start Date: Not specified
- Funding: 7 scholarships available out of 9 total positions
- 4 scholarships funded by university resources
- 3 scholarships funded through the Department of Excellence grant of the Department of Asia, Africa and Mediterranean Studies
- 2 positions without scholarship
- Required Degree: Relevant Master’s degree qualification in accepted disciplines
Research Focus
The PhD programme covers three main research areas:
- Archaeology: Archaeological research in Asia, Africa and the Mediterranean, including fieldwork, laboratory activities, research methods and museum collection studies.
- Philology–Linguistics–Literature: Philological, linguistic and literary studies focused on written texts, oral traditions and visual representations across Asian, African and Mediterranean contexts.
- History, Culture and Society: Historical, philosophical, religious, anthropological, artistic and social science studies covering topics from ancient periods to modern and contemporary issues.
Eligibility and Requirements
Applicants must hold a relevant Master’s degree qualification in one of the following fields:
- Archaeology, anthropology and ethnology, conservation of cultural heritage, and history of art
- Philology, literature, ancient history, languages and literature of Africa and Asia, and linguistics
- Humanities computing methodologies and related interdisciplinary disciplines
- International relations, political science, religious studies and philosophy
- Historical sciences, translation and interpretation, and law
Candidates with qualifications obtained outside Italy may apply. The admission committee will evaluate the equivalence of foreign degrees only for access to the PhD selection process.
Additional Requirements
Applicants must submit a research project related to the PhD programme themes and demonstrate knowledge of at least one major European language. The application must also include a reference letter signed by a qualified scholar outside the doctoral board.
The selection committee may consider additional academic achievements, including publications and previous research experience. Knowledge of Italian is strongly recommended for all candidates. International applicants who receive a scholarship and do not have B1-level Italian proficiency will be required to attend university language courses to achieve this level by the end of the second year.
Research Responsibilities
Successful doctoral researchers will develop independent research within their selected curriculum. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting doctoral research in the chosen disciplinary area
- Developing and completing a research project aligned with programme themes
- Applying appropriate methods for archaeological, historical, linguistic or cultural investigation
- Examining relevant sources, materials and academic evidence within the selected field
- Participating in PhD-related academic activities and discussions
- Developing doctoral research outcomes during the three-year programme
Funding and Benefits
The PhD programme offers scholarship support for selected candidates across the available doctoral positions. A total of 9 places are offered, including 7 scholarship-funded positions and 2 places without financial support.
- 4 scholarships funded through university resources
- 3 scholarships supported by the Department of Excellence grant of the Department of Asia, Africa and Mediterranean Studies
- 2 positions available without scholarship
- Three-year PhD duration
Application Process
Candidates must apply through the official doctoral admissions procedure at the University of Naples L’Orientale. Applicants should select one preferred curriculum and submit the required documents for evaluation.
Required documents include:
- Official application documents
- Research project related to the PhD themes
- Academic qualification documents
- Reference letter from a qualified scholar
- Additional research documents, including publications if available
International applicants may request remote interviews through Microsoft Teams or Skype. Interviews may be conducted in English or another major European language.
Why This Opportunity Matters
This PhD provides training across archaeology, Asian, African and Mediterranean studies, historical investigation and cultural analysis. The programme brings together different humanities disciplines to examine societies, traditions and sources from varied geographical and historical contexts.
Through interdisciplinary training and international academic collaboration, doctoral researchers can engage with approaches in archaeology, history, languages, literature and cultural studies. The programme includes partnerships with several international institutions, strengthening academic connections between researchers and universities across different regions.
Collaborating institutions include:7 scholarship-supported positions
- INALCO (Institut national des langues et civilisations orientales), Paris
- Asien-Afrika-Institut, University of Hamburg
- Leiden University
- Minzu University of China, Beijing
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Not specified
- Application Deadline: 31 August 2026, 23:59 UTC
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: Not specified
Interested applicants should review the official doctoral call through the Apply Now link, prepare the required documents and submit their application before the deadline.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Global Archaeology Research Opportunities
- Mediterranean Studies Research Positions
- Funded Humanities Doctoral Programmes
- Italian University Research Opportunities
- Cultural Studies PhD Positions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the PhD in Asian, African and Mediterranean Studies funded in Italy?
The programme offers 7 scholarship-funded positions out of 9 available places, including university and Department of Excellence funding.
What is the PhD application deadline?
The deadline is 31 August 2026 at 23:59 UTC.
Who can apply for this PhD in Italy?
Applicants with relevant Master’s degrees in humanities, social sciences, archaeology, languages, history or related fields can apply.
What are the PhD research areas?
The programme covers Archaeology, Philology–Linguistics–Literature, and History, Culture and Society.
Does this PhD include archaeology research?
Yes, the Archaeology curriculum includes fieldwork, laboratory activities, research methods and museum collection studies.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants need a research project, academic documents, and a reference letter from a qualified scholar.
Can international students apply for this PhD programme?
Yes, international applicants can apply and may request remote interviews during the selection process.
Institutional Overview
The University of Naples L’Orientale is a historic Italian university based in Naples, specialising in language, culture and regional studies. Established with a focus on Oriental studies, the institution offers teaching and research across Asia, Africa and the Mediterranean. Its academic activities include archaeology, history, literature, linguistics, philosophy and social sciences. The university promotes international cooperation through partnerships with institutions worldwide and supports advanced study within the humanities. With expertise in intercultural research and global perspectives, the University of Naples L’Orientale provides an academic environment for scholars exploring societies, traditions and historical developments across different regions.
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