The University of Trento is now inviting applications for its 41st cycle of the Doctoral Programme in Information Engineering and Computer Science for the academic year 2025/2026.

This prestigious PhD program offers a wide array of research areas, including machine learning, cybersecurity, software engineering, Systems and Networks, and many more. With 34 available positions (32 of which are funded by scholarships), candidates have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary and international research in collaboration with prominent institutions such as Fondazione Bruno Kessler.

This doctoral course trains researchers capable of developing innovative IT and telecommunications solutions for complex challenges. The emphasis is on nurturing entrepreneurial skills and offering practical experiences to support professional development.

The PhD program offers two main tracks, including Computer Science and Telecommunications, alongside two transdisciplinary paths: Space Data Science and Technology. These paths are available in collaboration with the PhD in Physics at the University of Trento and Quantum Science and Technologies, which are offered jointly with several PhD programs at the University of Trento, including Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, and Materials Science.

Also, check University of Trento PhD in International Studies Scholarships – 41st Cycle 2025/2026

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: May 12, 2025, 4:00 PM (Italian time, GMT +2)
• Start of the Academic Year: November 1, 2025
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Host Institution: University of Trento and Fondazione Bruno Kessler
• Eligible Countries: All countries
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Graduates and early researchers in Computer Science, Engineering, and related fields
• Fields: Information Engineering, Computer Science, AI, Cybersecurity, Robotics, Remote Sensing
• Study Level: PhD (Doctorate)
• Number of Opportunities: 32 scholarships, two without scholarships
• Duration: Typically 3 years
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: Italy

Benefits

Applicants will benefit from the following items:

• 32 fully funded scholarships
• The additional position is reserved for candidates with scholarships funded by foreign countries.
• Collaboration with high-ranking research institutions
• International and interdisciplinary research environment
• Intellectual property rights support

Eligibility Criteria

The application is open to all, regardless of gender, age, or nationality:

• Applicants must hold one of the following:
  • Italian Laurea Magistrale or Laurea Specialistica (Master’s Degree)
  • Degree from an Italian AFAM institution (Alta Formazione Artistica e Musicale)
  • Foreign Master’s degree equivalent in level and duration, recognized as valid for PhD access in the issuing country
• Applicants graduating by October 31, 2025, may apply
• Admission is conditional until submission of degree certificate or self-declaration by November 7, 2025
• Applicants without formal Italian equivalence will be considered for recognition during selection
• Must attach relevant documents and may be asked to provide additional information
• May apply for a second PhD in a different field
• Cannot receive a scholarship if previously awarded one (even partially) for another PhD
• Proficiency in English (TOEFL Level B2 according to CEFR)

Required Documents

The following are the required and optional supporting documents for your application package:

Mandatory Attachments:

• Valid identity document (ID card for EU / passport for non-EU)
• Academic degree for admission (with transcripts):
  • Italian degree: self-declaration with exam list, marks, credits
  • Foreign degree: certificates and transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s, if applicable)

• Curriculum vitae et studiorum (in Italian or English, preferably Europass format)
• Statement of purpose (max 5000 characters, English)
• English language certification (minimum B2 level or equivalent evidence/declaration)
• Brief research project (only if applying for reserved-topic scholarships)

Optional Attachments:

• Additional titles (e.g., GRE or similar international certifications)
• Other relevant qualifications (e.g., thesis, publications, awards, scholarships, etc.)
• Copy of Bachelor’s degree and transcript
• Names and contact details of up to three referees
• Foreign qualification documents:

1. • Master’s diploma (original language)
   • Diploma Supplement
   • Declaration of value or
   • Statement of comparability (CIMEA)
   • Recognition of equivalence (Rectoral Decree, if available)

Selection Process

The application selection has two steps as follows:

Evaluation of Applications:

• A Rector Selection Committee will evaluate the application per the evaluation criteria set during a preliminary meeting.
• Selection will be based on qualifications and applicants’ research aptitude and relevance to the chosen Research Area.
• The Committee may conduct interviews or video calls (no extra points awarded).
• For reserved-topic scholarships, research project relevance is evaluated.
• Applicants must score at least 70/100 to pass.

Ranking:

• Each research area has a separate ranking.
• Offers (with or without scholarships) are based on:
  • Ranking position
  • Eligibility for reserved-topic or foreign-funded scholarships
  • Tie-breaking rules (see Article 7)
• Unassigned reserved-topic scholarships will reduce the number of available positions.

How to Apply?

• Submit the online application by May 12, 2025, via the Doctoral Programmes Applications portal linked below.
• Authenticate via SPID/CIE, University of Trento account, or temporary UniTrento guest account (for those without Italian credentials).
• Pay a non-refundable €30 fee through the PagoPA system.
• Save and revise the application until final submission; after submission, changes are not allowed.
• You can choose only one research area and up to two reserved-topic scholarships.
• Express interest in additional scholarships (optional) when available

Apply Now

Further details and information regarding this PhD program are available on the official University of Trento webpage, or you can review the relevant call.

Check More Opportunities:

Siena University International Excellence Scholarships in Italy

Zhengzhou University Henan Provincial Government Scholarship 2025

Special Research Fund (BOF) Doctoral Scholarship by Ghent University