Several PhD Opportunities in All Research Fields at University of Florence [Open to International Students]
The University of Florence has officially opened applications for its XLII Cycle (42nd Cycle) PhD programmes for the 2026/2027 academic year. This call offers access to more than 30 doctoral programmes across biomedical sciences, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities. Many positions include fully funded scholarships, and eligible international students may receive an additional one-off relocation grant of up to €5,000. If you are planning to pursue a PhD in Europe, this is one of the most comprehensive and internationally accessible doctoral calls in Italy.
The University of Florence PhD Call for 2026/2027 offers one of the strongest doctoral funding packages in Italy, with annual scholarships, international mobility support, and relocation grants for eligible students. Whether your research interests lie in biomedical sciences, engineering, environmental studies, economics, law, or the humanities, this call provides a well-structured pathway to advanced research training at one of Europe’s most respected universities. For ambitious students seeking a fully funded PhD in Italy, the University of Florence deserves serious consideration.
Full List of Available PhD Programmes:
The University of Florence offers doctoral programmes across five major academic areas.
Technological Area
- Architecture and Design Cultures, Knowledge and Safeguarding of Cultural Heritage
- Sustainable Management of Agricultural Resources, Forestry and Food
- Information Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- International Doctorate in Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
- Sustainability and Innovation for the Design of Built Environment and System Product
Biomedical Area
- Drug Research and Innovative Treatments
- Translational Research in the Sciences for Health Protection
- Biomedical Sciences
- Clinical Sciences
Scientific Area
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology
- Earth and Planetary Sciences
- Physics and Astronomy
- International Doctorate in Atomic and Molecular Photonics
- International Doctorate in Structural Biology
- Mathematics, Computer Sciences, Statistics
- Chemical Sciences
Social Sciences Area
- Development Economics and Local Systems (DELOS)
- Legal Sciences
Humanities Area
- Philology, Italian Literature, Linguistics
- Comparative Languages, Literature and Culture
- Education Sciences and Psychology
- History of Art and Performing Arts
- Historical Studies
Admission Requirements
Applicants may apply if they:
- Already hold a master’s degree or equivalent qualification, or
- Will complete the degree before November 1, 2026
- There are no age or nationality restrictions for admission, although the additional €5,000 relocation grant has age and residency requirements.
Required Application Documents
Typical application materials include:
- Passport or national ID
- Degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Thesis title and final grade
- Research proposal (if required)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Additional programme-specific documents
- Payment receipt for the €30 application fee
Documents not issued in English or Italian should be translated.
Recognition of Foreign Degrees
Applicants with degrees from outside Italy may apply directly by uploading their certificates and transcripts. Before enrollment, admitted students may be asked to provide:
- Diploma Supplement (for EU degrees)
- Declaration of Value (Dichiarazione di Valore)
- CIMEA Statement of Comparability and Verification
- Non-EU students will also need to complete visa procedures through the Universitaly portal.
Selection Process
Admission may include:
- Evaluation of academic qualifications
- Review of research proposal
- Written examination
- Oral interview
Many programmes use an interview-only format, while others include a written test. Online interviews are available for many courses if selected during the application process.
Attendance Requirements
PhD candidates are expected to:
- Study full-time for three years
- Conduct research continuously
- Complete an international research stay
- Earn at least 6 credits in complementary skills courses
Paid work may be permitted if compatible with doctoral duties and if annual earnings do not exceed the annual scholarship amount.
Living in Florence as a Doctoral Student
Florence offers a unique academic experience. Beyond its historical and artistic significance, the city hosts a vibrant international student community and provides easy access to research networks across Europe. Students benefit from:
- Rich cultural heritage
- Excellent public transport
- International academic environment
- Central location for European travel
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through Online Application Deadline for applications 11 June 2026 at 12 noon (Italian time)
Contact Information
PhD Office – University of Florence
Email: dottorato@unifi.it
Phone: +39 055 2756 721–725
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the University of Florence PhD fully funded?
Many positions come with scholarships worth €16,243 per year, plus additional research funds and mobility support.
Can international students apply?
Yes. There are no citizenship restrictions, and additional relocation support is available for eligible candidates.
What is the application deadline?
June 11, 2026 at 12:00 noon (Italian time).
How much is the application fee?
€30 for each PhD programme application.
How long is the PhD?
Three years.
Is there extra funding for international students?
Yes. Eligible candidates may receive a one-time relocation grant of up to €5,000.
Can interviews be conducted online?
Yes, many programmes allow online interviews if the option is selected during the application.
What is the annual scholarship amount?
€16,243 gross per year.
When do PhD programmes start?
November 1, 2026.
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