Applications are now open for the National PhD Programme in Sustainable Development and Climate Change (SDC) 2026–2027, one of Italy’s largest interdisciplinary doctoral programmes dedicated to addressing global sustainability and climate challenges.
Coordinated by the IUSS School for Advanced Studies Pavia (Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS Pavia), the programme brings together more than 50 Italian universities and leading research institutions, offering over 30 fully funded PhD scholarships across a wide range of sustainability and climate-related research areas.
The programme is coordinated by:
Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS Pavia
📍 Pavia, Lombardy, Italy
Research activities are hosted across participating universities and research institutions throughout Italy.
Research Areas
Applicants can pursue research in a broad range of sustainability-related disciplines, including:
- Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation
- Sustainable Development
- Environmental Science
- Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation
- Renewable Energy
- Circular Economy
- Sustainable Cities and Urban Resilience
- Climate Policy and Governance
- Water Resources Management
- Environmental Monitoring and Artificial Intelligence
- Oceans and Marine Systems
- Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
- Natural Resource Management
- Disaster Risk Reduction
- Ecological Transition
Research is organised into interdisciplinary curricula that integrate environmental, social, economic, engineering, and technological perspectives.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- ✅ Fully funded PhD scholarship
- ✅ Monthly living stipend
- ✅ Full tuition fee coverage
- ✅ Research and training opportunities with leading universities and research institutes
- ✅ Access to international collaborations and interdisciplinary research networks
- ✅ Opportunities for international mobility and research exchanges
The programme offers 30+ funded PhD positions for the 2026–2027 academic cycle.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Hold (or obtain before enrolment) a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
- Demonstrate a strong academic background relevant to their chosen research area.
- Meet the programme’s admission requirements.
- Be prepared to undertake interdisciplinary research in sustainability and climate change.
International applicants are encouraged to apply.
Application Process
Applicants are required to:
- Complete the online application form.
- Select their preferred research topic(s).
- Submit all required supporting documents, including academic transcripts and qualifications.
- Participate in the selection process, which includes an oral examination for shortlisted candidates.
Applicants should carefully review the official call for detailed programme requirements and documentation.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 26 August 2026 (1:00 PM CEST)
- Admission to Oral Examination: 21 September 2026
- Oral Examination: 23 September 2026
- Final Results: 10 October 2026
- Programme Start: 1 November 2026
Why You Should Apply
The National PhD in Sustainable Development and Climate Change is one of Europe’s leading interdisciplinary doctoral programmes dedicated to addressing global environmental challenges. Through collaboration with dozens of universities and research organisations, students gain access to world-class expertise, cutting-edge research facilities, and international partnerships while contributing solutions to climate change, biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and the green transition. It is an excellent opportunity for aspiring researchers seeking to make a lasting impact on the future of our planet.
