The Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia (UNIMORE) has announced 5 funded PhD positions for the XLII Cycle (Academic Year 2026/2027) within the three-year Joint PhD Programme in “Agri-food Science, Technology and Biotechnology.” With its administrative headquarters in Modena, this doctoral program offers advanced interdisciplinary training in agri-food innovation, food safety, microbiology, and biotechnology—fields that remain highly relevant in global research funding and industry development.

The Joint PhD in Agri-food Science, Technology and Biotechnology at UNIMORE represents a focused, research-driven doctoral pathway within one of Italy’s most economically significant sectors. With structured training, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and full funding support, it is particularly attractive for candidates aiming to build careers in food innovation and biotechnology research. Early preparation and careful review of the official Call are strongly recommended. The PhD program officially begins on November 1, 2026.

About the Host Institution

The Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia is a well-established Italian public university known for excellence in applied sciences, engineering, food technology, and biomedical research.

Institution Type: Academic
Country: Italy
Address: Via Università 4, 41121 Modena
Email: segr.dottorati@unimore.it
Phone: +39 059 2056423

Its strategic location in Emilia-Romagna—one of Europe’s most important agri-food regions—provides doctoral researchers with access to industry networks and research collaborations.

Program Overview

This competitive doctoral program integrates scientific research with technological innovation in the agri-food sector. It is structured to prepare early-stage researchers for careers in academia, research institutions, regulatory agencies, and the private food and biotechnology industries.

Research Areas

The available positions are aligned with the following scientific disciplinary sectors:

• Agricultural, Food and Environmental Microbiology (G.S.D. 07/AGRI-08)
• Food Science and Technology (G.S.D. 07/AGRI-07)

The joint structure of the PhD encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and exposure to both academic and applied research environments.

Why This PhD Matters for Agri-Food Researchers

Global demand for sustainable agriculture, food security innovation, microbiological safety, and biotechnological advancement continues to grow. Doctoral training in these domains not only opens academic career pathways but also leads to high-impact roles in:

• Food safety authorities
• Agricultural biotechnology firms
• Environmental monitoring agencies
• International research consortia
• EU-funded Horizon projects

For candidates seeking a fully funded PhD in Italy within a high-demand scientific field, this opportunity provides both academic rigor and practical research exposure.

Admission Requirements

The competition is open to candidates of any age and nationality who, by July 31, 2026, hold one of the following qualifications:

• Italian Laurea Magistrale (D.M. 270/04)
• Italian Laurea Specialistica (D.M. 509/99)
• Italian degree obtained prior to D.M. 509/99
• AFAM second-level academic qualification
• Equivalent foreign Master’s degree

Selection Procedure

Admission is based strictly on academic merit and research record. The evaluation criteria and procedures are detailed in Article 5 of the official Call. Candidates are ranked according to their academic performance and research potential, and admission is granted based on merit ranking.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official online procedure. Application Deadline: 12 May 2026 at 13:00 (Italian time) Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances. Apply Online: https://www.esse3.unimore.it/Home.do & Contact Email: segr.dottorati@unimore.it

Official Call & Full Details:

English version:
https://www.unimore.it/en/education/doctoral-research-programmes Applicants are strongly advised to carefully review the complete Call document for detailed information on thematic areas, documentation requirements, and evaluation criteria.

Italian version:
https://www.unimore.it/it/didattica/dottorati-di-ricerca

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is this PhD fully funded?

Yes. All 5 positions include a funded scholarship of €17,000 per year for three years.

2. Can international students apply?

Yes. The competition is open to candidates of any nationality.

3. When does the PhD program start?

The program begins on November 1, 2026.

4. What is the application deadline?

The final deadline is 12 May 2026 at 13:00 (Italian time).

5. What degree is required?

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification by July 31, 2026.

6. How are candidates selected?

Selection is based on academic and research records according to the criteria detailed in the official Call.

7. How long is the PhD program?

The duration is 36 months (three years).