Are you interested in international relations, cyber security, or legal studies in the context of global defense? Are you looking for an opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. program in Italy while contributing to high-level research in national and international security? The Centre for Advanced Defence Studies (CASD) in Italy is calling for applications to its fully-funded Ph.D. in Defence and Security Studies (41st Cycle), offering eight positions across four specialized curricula.

This competitive program, hosted by CASD and coordinated by Prof. Daniela Irrera, is aimed at nurturing future experts and thought leaders in strategic and security domains. Spanning three years from November 1, 2025, to October 31, 2028, it integrates rigorous research training, practical skills development, and expert mentorship to prepare candidates for leadership roles in academia, government, or industry. The program is administered under the Italian Ministry of Defence and adheres to national academic accreditation standards.

Candidates from all over the world, regardless of citizenship or age, are invited to apply. A valid academic degree (or proof of completion by October 31, 2025) is required, and selected foreign applicants will undergo a security clearance process. Admission is based on academic qualifications, a research project, and an interview. All applicants must submit their applications via the online platform by May 22, 2025.

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: May 22, 2025, at noon (Italian time)
• Program Start: November 1, 2025
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Host Institution: Centre for Advanced Defence Studies (CASD), Ministry of Defence, Italy
• Eligible Countries: All nationalities
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Researchers, early-career academics, professionals in defense/security sectors
• Field: Defence and Security Studies
• Study Level: Ph.D.
• Degree Required: Master’s degree or equivalent (by October 31, 2025)
• Number of Opportunities: 8 positions
• Duration: 3 years (2025–2028)
• Program Language: English and Italian
• Host Country: Italy

Scholarship Details

The CASD will provide the following scholarship benefits for the selected candidates:

• Annual gross scholarship of €16,243.00.
• Tax incentives are applicable as per Italian law.
• Social security contributions (INPS) with 2/3 covered by the Ministry of Defence.
• Yearly renewal of the scholarship based on academic progress.
• 50% increase in scholarships for up to 12 months for approved research abroad.
• Additional research funds equal to 10% of the scholarship amount (for research in Italy or abroad).
• Monthly installment payments, with back-pay for missed or delayed payments.
• Access to social security benefits and protections through INPS.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Open to candidates of any nationality and age
• Must hold (or be completed by October 31, 2025) a Master’s degree or equivalent academic qualification
• The Selection Committee must recognize foreign qualifications for admission purposes.
• Must submit a complete application, including all required documents and a valid research proposal
• Foreign candidates require security clearance from the Italian Ministry of Defence.
• Each applicant can only apply for one curriculum.

Required Documents

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Curriculum Vitae (European format)
• Research project in both English and Italian
• Valid ID or passport
• Degree certificate or proof of enrollment and expected graduation by October 31, 2025
• Transcripts, study plans, and any international recognition documents
• Signed application form – mandatory for those without SPID/CNS
• Valid email for communication
• Declaration of disability for assistance (Optional)

Selection Process and Criteria

• The Selection Committee evaluates candidates based on qualifications, research projects, and interviews.
• The total score is 100 points: 60 for qualifications and project, 40 for the interview.
• Only documents uploaded correctly by the deadline are considered (CV details alone are not enough).
• To qualify for the interview, candidates must score at least 40/60 in the evaluation of qualifications.
• A minimum of 24/40 in the interview is required for admission.
• Interviews are held in-person at CASD or online via CISCO Webex, with proper candidate identification.
• Non-attendance results in exclusion.
• The Selection Committee includes five members (3 from academia, two from MoD) and may consist of external experts.

How to Apply?

• Go to the official application portal using the link below.
• Italian citizens: Apply using SPID or CNS credentials
• Foreign citizens: Apply online or register for password access (if no digital identity is available)
• Complete the application, upload all required documents (PDF format), and select your curriculum
• Apply no later than May 22, 2025, 12:00 PM (Italian time)

Apply Now

Further details and information regarding scholarships are available on the official CASD website. You may also review the official call, or for technical issues, contact [email protected]

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