13 Funded PhD Positions in Food Science at the University of Naples Federico II, Italy (2026)
If you’re looking for a fully funded PhD opportunity in Europe, the University of Naples Federico II in Italy has announced 13 funded PhD positions in Food Science for the 2026 admission cycle. The program is designed for graduates who want to pursue advanced research in food science while working alongside experienced researchers in one of Italy’s leading public universities.
The doctoral program offers extensive research opportunities across multiple disciplines, allowing students to contribute to innovative solutions in food production, nutrition, sustainability, food safety, and emerging technologies. International applicants from all countries are welcome to apply.
The 13 Funded PhD Positions in Food Science at the University of Naples Federico II offer an excellent opportunity for aspiring researchers to pursue doctoral studies in Italy. With research spanning food technology, nutrition, microbiology, genomics, food safety, and sustainable food systems, the program provides a strong foundation for careers in academia, industry, and international research. If you meet the eligibility requirements, consider preparing your application early to maximize your chances before the 21 July 2026 deadline.
Scholarship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Country | Italy |
| University | University of Naples Federico II |
| Program | PhD in Food Science |
| Number of Positions | 13 |
| Funding | Fully Funded PhD Positions |
| Eligible Applicants | International Applicants |
| Research Level | Early Stage Researchers (0–4 Years After Graduation) |
| Application Deadline | 21 July 2026 (12:00 PM Italy Time) |
About the PhD Program
The PhD in Food Science provides advanced academic and scientific training for graduates who wish to specialize in modern food science research.
Students will develop expertise through independent research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced coursework covering both fundamental and applied aspects of food science.
One of the program’s strengths is its flexibility. Research is not restricted to a single food category. Candidates may work on projects involving virtually any food or beverage product, depending on their research interests and the expertise of their supervisors.
The program encourages innovation while addressing global challenges related to nutrition, food quality, sustainability, consumer behavior, and food security.
Research Areas
Applicants may conduct research in a wide range of food science disciplines, including:
- Food Technology
- Food Microbiology
- Food Chemistry
- Food Biochemistry
- Food Preservation
- Food Safety
- Sensory Analysis
- Consumer Science
- Food Modelling
- Food Design
- Food Innovation
- Nutrition and Human Health
- Microbiome Research
- Bioactive Compounds
- Functional Foods
- Food Genetics
- Food Genomics
- Food Supply Chain Management
- Food Authenticity
- Global Food Markets
- International Food Trade
Research topics may also extend into interdisciplinary fields depending on the proposed project.
Why Study Food Science at the University of Naples Federico II?
The University of Naples Federico II is among Italy’s oldest and most respected public universities, with a long tradition of excellence in scientific research and higher education.
The Food Science doctoral program offers students opportunities to:
- Conduct high-level scientific research.
- Work with experienced academic supervisors.
- Access modern research laboratories.
- Collaborate on interdisciplinary projects.
- Publish research in international journals.
- Build careers in academia, research institutes, government agencies, and the food industry.
Graduates are well positioned for careers in food innovation, biotechnology, nutrition research, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and sustainable food systems.
Who Can Apply?
The PhD positions are intended for:
- Early-stage researchers.
- Recent postgraduate graduates.
- Applicants with 0–4 years of research experience after graduation.
The competition is open to applicants from all nationalities.
Eligible applicants may reside in:
- Europe
- Asia
- Africa
- North America
- South America
- Oceania
- Other regions worldwide
The research itself may also be conducted through collaborations across these regions where applicable.
Funding Information
The announcement offers 13 funded PhD positions in Food Science. Successful applicants will receive financial support according to the university’s doctoral funding regulations.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Call Published | 22 June 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 21 July 2026 |
| Deadline Time | 12:00 PM (Italy Time) |
Late applications are generally not accepted, so applicants should prepare and submit all required documents well before the deadline.
Host Institution
University: University of Naples Federico II
Institution Type: Public Academic University
Location: Naples, Italy
Eligibility
Applicants from every country and nationality are eligible to apply.
The program welcomes qualified candidates who wish to pursue doctoral research in Food Science and related interdisciplinary fields.
Applicants should carefully review the official admission requirements before submitting their application.
How to Apply:
Before applying, prepare all required documentation, which may include:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal (if required)
- Identification documents
- Language certificates (if applicable)
- Deadline: July 21, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.
- Link to the application process: https://pica.cineca.it
- Contact Email: phdnafedericoii@unina.it
- Appendix A to the Call for Applications – Correction to Annex A of the call for applications – DR/2026/2478 dated June 24, 2026 (published on June 24, 2026)
- Addendum to the call for applications – DR/2026/2440 dated June 23, 2026 (published on June 23, 2026)
- Call for Applications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this PhD fully funded?
Yes. The announcement includes 13 funded PhD positions. Applicants should consult the official call for detailed scholarship conditions and financial benefits.
How many positions are available?
There are 13 funded PhD positions available in the Food Science doctoral program.
Can international students apply?
Yes. The competition is open to applicants from all countries and nationalities.
What research fields are covered?
The program includes research in food technology, microbiology, food chemistry, nutrition, food safety, microbiome studies, food genomics, functional foods, sensory science, food innovation, supply chain management, food authenticity, and many other areas of food science.
Is research limited to certain food products?
No. Research projects may involve any type of food or beverage depending on the approved research topic.
Who is eligible to apply?
The program is intended for early-stage researchers, typically postgraduate graduates with up to four years of research experience.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 21 July 2026 at 12:00 PM (Italy time).
Is this scholarship funded by the European Union?
No. According to the official announcement, this PhD program is not funded or co-funded through an EU Research Framework Programme.
Where is the university located?
The University of Naples Federico II is located in Naples, Italy, one of Europe’s leading academic and research centers.
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