6 Funded PhD Positions in Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences at the University Mediterranea of Reggio Calabria, Italy (2026/2027)
Are you looking for a funded PhD in Italy focused on agriculture, food systems, forestry, and environmental sustainability? The University Mediterranea of Reggio Calabria has opened applications for its 42nd Cycle PhD Programme in Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF) for the 2026/2027 academic year. The programme is part of the university’s doctoral admissions, which include 31 PhD positions across five disciplines, of which 25 are funded. Within the Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences programme, 6 positions are available, including 5 funded scholarships and 1 position without a scholarship.
Designed to address global challenges in sustainable agriculture and natural resource management, the programme prepares researchers capable of developing innovative solutions for food production, forestry, climate resilience, and the circular economy.
Scholarship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host University | University Mediterranea of Reggio Calabria |
| Country | Italy |
| PhD Programme | Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF) |
| Academic Cycle | XLII (42nd Cycle) |
| Academic Year | 2026/2027 |
| Total Positions in Programme | 6 |
| Funded Scholarships | 5 |
| Non-Funded Position | 1 |
| Total PhD Positions Across University | 31 |
| Total Funded Scholarships Across University | 25 |
| Funding Institution | MUR & University Mediterranea |
| Application Opens | 29 July 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 3 September 2026 (12:00 PM Italian Time) |
| Application Mode | Online via Esse3 Platform |
About the SAAF PhD Programme
The Doctoral Programme in Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF) combines expertise from multiple scientific disciplines to improve agricultural productivity while promoting sustainability and innovation. The programme emphasizes research that enhances production efficiency while protecting natural resources. Students are encouraged to develop solutions that support environmentally responsible agriculture and food production systems suitable for Mediterranean regions and other climate-sensitive areas. Graduates will gain advanced research skills and practical expertise for careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, environmental organizations, and the agri-food industry.
Research Focus Areas
The programme covers numerous interdisciplinary research topics, including:
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Food Science and Technology
- Forestry and Forest Management
- Agroecosystem Management
- Circular Economy
- Climate Change Adaptation
- Water Resource Management
- Soil Health and Conservation
- Livestock Production Systems
- Agri-Food Supply Chains
- Mediterranean Agricultural Systems
- Agricultural Innovation
- Environmental Sustainability
- Precision Agriculture
- Natural Resource Management
Research projects aim to improve the efficiency and resilience of agricultural and forest systems while addressing global environmental challenges.
Why Study at the University Mediterranea?
Located in Reggio Calabria, the University Mediterranea is known for its research activities in agriculture, environmental sciences, engineering, architecture, and sustainable development. Its strategic location in southern Italy provides an ideal environment for research on Mediterranean ecosystems, biodiversity, climate adaptation, and sustainable land management. Doctoral candidates benefit from experienced supervisors, multidisciplinary collaboration, and access to modern research facilities.
Selection Process
Admission is based on a competitive evaluation consisting of two stages:
1. Evaluation of Research Project and Qualifications
Applicants are assessed on:
- Research proposal
- Academic qualifications
- Curriculum Vitae
- Educational background
Maximum Score: 60 points
2. Oral Examination
Shortlisted candidates participate in an oral interview, which also includes an assessment of English language proficiency.
Maximum Score: 60 points
The final ranking is based on the combined score from both stages. The Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences PhD at the University Mediterranea offers an excellent opportunity for graduates interested in sustainable agriculture, food security, forestry, environmental protection, and climate change research.
With its strong focus on innovation, circular economy principles, and Mediterranean ecosystems, the programme equips doctoral candidates with the expertise needed to address some of the most pressing global challenges facing agriculture and natural resource management. Whether your career goal is academic research, public policy, environmental consultancy, or the agri-food sector, this doctoral programme provides an outstanding platform for professional and scientific development.
Other PhD Programmes in the Same Call
The university has also announced doctoral positions in the following disciplines:
- Architecture and Design
- Law and Economics
- Civil, Environmental and Industrial Engineering
- Information Engineering
- Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences
In total, the university is offering 31 PhD positions, making this one of its largest doctoral recruitment rounds.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Applications Open | 29 July 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 3 September 2026 (12:00 PM Italian Time) |
How to Apply:
- Valid passport or identification document
- Europass Curriculum Vitae
- Academic qualification certificates
- Research proposal prepared exclusively using Annex B
- Completed and signed application form generated by the Esse3 system
- Required Application Documents: Applicants must upload the following documents through the Esse3 online platform: https://unirc.esse3.cineca.it
- Applications for the selection procedure must be submitted exclusively online, starting from July 29 until 12:00 PM (Italian time) on September 3, 2026.
- XLII Cycle Call for applications
- Annex A
- Annex B
The research proposal may be written in either English or Italian and must relate to one of the approved research topics.
Contact Information
University Mediterranea of Reggio Calabria; Address: Via dell’Università, 25, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy. Email: scuoladottorato@unirc.it
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many PhD positions are available?
The Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences programme offers 6 positions, including 5 funded scholarships and 1 non-funded position.
Is this a fully funded PhD?
Most available places are funded. Five of the six positions include a PhD scholarship, while one position is offered without funding.
What research areas are covered?
The programme focuses on sustainable agriculture, food systems, forestry, climate change, soil health, water resource management, agroecosystems, livestock production, and the circular economy.
How are candidates selected?
Selection consists of an evaluation of the research proposal and academic qualifications, followed by an oral examination that includes an English language assessment.
What documents are required?
Applicants must submit a valid ID, Europass CV, academic qualifications, a research proposal using Annex B, and the signed application form generated through the Esse3 platform.
Can the research proposal be written in English?
Yes. The proposal may be prepared in either English or Italian.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 3 September 2026 at 12:00 PM (Italian time).
Which university offers this PhD?
The programme is offered by the University Mediterranea of Reggio Calabria, a public research university in southern Italy with strong expertise in sustainability, agriculture, and environmental sciences.
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