5 Funded PhD Positions in Educational Sciences at the University of Foggia, Italy (2026)
The University of Foggia has opened applications for five funded PhD positions in its Educational, Development and Learning Sciences doctoral program for the 42nd PhD Cycle (2026/2027).
This interdisciplinary doctoral program is designed for graduates who aspire to become researchers, university academics, educational innovators, policy experts, and professionals working in education, psychology, and the social sciences. It provides advanced research training while preparing candidates to address the evolving challenges facing education systems, organizations, and public institutions.
With a strong emphasis on innovation, international collaboration, and research excellence, the program aligns with Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), supporting both the digital transition and the ecological transition across education, workplaces, businesses, and public administration.
Whether your research interests lie in educational policy, learning sciences, educational technology, psychology, or social development, this PhD offers an outstanding opportunity to build an international academic career.
Scholarship Overview
| Scholarship Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host University | University of Foggia |
| Country | Italy |
| PhD Program | Educational, Development and Learning Sciences |
| Academic Cycle | 42nd Cycle |
| Main Research Field | Educational Sciences |
| Research Subfield | Education |
| Number of Funded Positions | 5 |
| Funding Organization | University of Foggia |
| International Mobility | Required |
| Research Country | Italy |
| Eligible Nationalities | International Applicants |
| Eligible Residence | Applicants Residing Outside Italy |
| EU Research Framework Funding | No |
| Application Deadline | 8 September 2026 (1:00 PM Italy Time) |
About the PhD Program
The PhD in Educational, Development and Learning Sciences equips doctoral candidates with advanced theoretical, methodological, and experimental research skills required to conduct high-quality research in educational and human sciences.
The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, combining perspectives from pedagogy, psychology, education, and the social sciences to develop innovative solutions for contemporary educational challenges.
Graduates are prepared for careers in:
- Universities
- Research institutes
- Government agencies
- Public administration
- Educational organizations
- International institutions
- Private companies
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Educational technology companies
- Policy and consulting organizations
The curriculum encourages students to produce research that contributes to scientific knowledge while addressing real-world educational and societal needs.
Key Research Areas
Doctoral candidates may pursue research in a wide range of educational and human development topics, including:
- Educational sciences
- General and social pedagogy
- Learning sciences
- Developmental psychology
- Educational psychology
- Curriculum design
- Teaching and learning innovation
- Educational assessment
- Inclusive education
- Lifelong learning
- Educational policy
- Higher education
- Digital education
- Artificial intelligence in education
- Educational leadership
- Human development
- Social inclusion
- Community education
- Sustainable education
- Public administration and education
- Educational innovation
The interdisciplinary nature of the program enables students to combine multiple research perspectives to address complex educational issues.
Supporting the Digital and Ecological Transition
A distinctive feature of this doctoral program is its commitment to supporting Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
Research projects are encouraged to contribute to:
- Digital transformation in education
- Sustainable educational practices
- Innovation in public administration
- Digital learning environments
- Organizational development
- Skills for the future workforce
- Ecological transition across educational institutions
- Innovation within businesses and public organizations
This focus ensures that doctoral research remains relevant to contemporary national and international priorities.
International and Interdisciplinary Training
The PhD has both an international vocation and an interdisciplinary structure.
Students benefit from:
- International academic collaborations
- Research mobility opportunities
- Advanced methodological training
- Interdisciplinary supervision
- International seminars
- Research workshops
- Academic conferences
- Collaboration with universities abroad
These experiences help doctoral candidates build strong international research networks while developing globally recognized academic expertise.
Number of Funded Positions
For the 42nd doctoral cycle, the University of Foggia is offering:
5 funded PhD positions
These scholarships support doctoral research in educational sciences and related interdisciplinary fields.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open to international applicants.
Candidates from countries outside Italy who meet the academic admission requirements are eligible to apply for the program.
Admission Process
Admission is competitive and designed to identify candidates with strong academic potential and research capabilities.
The selection process includes three stages.
1. Assessment of Academic Qualifications
The admissions committee evaluates:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- Publications
- Research experience
- Academic achievements
- Additional qualifications
Strong academic performance and relevant research experience strengthen an application.
2. Research Project or Written Examination
Applicants are required to submit a research proposal where specified in the official call.
Alternatively, candidates may be evaluated through a written examination depending on the admission requirements.
An effective research proposal should clearly explain:
- Research objectives
- Background and rationale
- Research methodology
- Expected contribution
- Potential educational impact
3. Oral Examination
Shortlisted applicants will participate in an oral examination covering research topics relevant to the doctoral program.
The interview also includes an assessment of English language proficiency.
Applicants may request to complete the interview entirely in English.
Funding Information
The doctoral scholarships are funded by the:
University of Foggia
These scholarships are not financed or co-financed through an EU Research Framework Programme.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Call Published | 13 July 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 8 September 2026 |
| Closing Time | 1:00 PM (Italy Time) |
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Required Application Documents
Before submitting an application, candidates should prepare:
- Completed online application
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Research proposal (where required)
- Scientific publications (if available)
- Supporting academic documents
- Additional documentation requested in the official call
Always consult the official call to verify the complete list of required documents.
Why Choose the University of Foggia?
The University of Foggia has become an increasingly attractive destination for doctoral researchers thanks to its emphasis on interdisciplinary research, innovation, and international collaboration.
Students benefit from:
- Fully funded doctoral positions
- International research environment
- Strong interdisciplinary supervision
- Research mobility opportunities
- Advanced methodological training
- Focus on digital and ecological transition
- Collaboration with academic and professional partners
- Preparation for careers in academia, government, and industry
The program equips graduates with the expertise needed to address complex educational challenges in rapidly changing global societies.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the University of Foggia’s official admissions portal before the application deadline.
Applicants should carefully complete the online application form and upload all required documents, including the research proposal where applicable.
Official PhD Program: https://www.unifg.it/it/studiare/corsi-post-laurea/ciclo-xlii/scienze-della-formazione-dello-sviluppo-e-dellapprendimento
Online Application Portal: https://unifg.esse3.cineca.it/Home.do
University Contact Information
University of Foggia
Address
Via Gramsci 89/91
71121 Foggia, Italy
Phone
+39 333 320 3900
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this PhD fully funded?
The University of Foggia is offering five funded PhD positions for the 2026 doctoral cycle. Applicants should consult the official call for complete information regarding scholarship funding and financial benefits.
How many funded positions are available?
There are five funded PhD positions available in the Educational, Development and Learning Sciences doctoral program.
Can international students apply?
Yes. International applicants who meet the academic admission requirements are eligible to apply.
What disciplines does the program cover?
The program focuses on educational sciences, pedagogy, psychology, learning sciences, educational innovation, human development, digital education, educational policy, and interdisciplinary social science research.
Does the program support research on digital education?
Yes. One of the program’s priorities is supporting research that contributes to digital transformation, educational innovation, and sustainable development in line with Italy’s PNRR objectives.
Is international mobility required?
Yes. International mobility is an important component of the doctoral program and provides opportunities for collaboration with universities and research institutions abroad.
Is a research proposal required?
Yes. Applicants must submit a research proposal where required by the official call. Some candidates may instead be assessed through a written examination.
Will there be an interview?
Yes. Shortlisted applicants will complete an oral examination that also includes an English language assessment.
Can I complete the interview in English?
Yes. Candidates may request to conduct the entire oral interview in English.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 8 September 2026 at 1:00 PM (Italy Time).
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