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5 Funded PhD Positions in Sustainability and ESG Agenda at Universitas Mercatorum, Italy

ByAgristok

Applications are now open for five funded PhD positions in the Doctorate Course in Sustainability and ESG Agenda (XLII Cycle – Academic Year 2026/2027) at Universitas Mercatorum in Italy. This doctoral programme is designed for graduates interested in sustainability, agricultural economics, environmental governance, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies. One of the central research themes for this admission cycle focuses on greenwashing, examining its causes, impacts, and potential solutions. The programme offers an excellent opportunity for researchers who want to contribute to sustainable development, responsible business practices, and evidence-based policymaking while pursuing doctoral studies in Italy.

The 5 Funded PhD Positions in Sustainability and ESG Agenda at Universitas Mercatorum provide an excellent opportunity for graduates who want to conduct impactful research on sustainability, agricultural economics, and ESG practices. With a timely research focus on greenwashing and responsible business conduct, the programme equips doctoral candidates with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to sustainable policy, academic research, and organizational innovation. Interested applicants should prepare their documents early and submit their applications before the 10 September 2026 deadline.

About Universitas Mercatorum

Universitas Mercatorum is an Italian university known for its focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and digital education. Through its doctoral programmes, the university promotes interdisciplinary research addressing emerging economic, environmental, and societal challenges. The Sustainability and ESG Agenda doctorate prepares researchers to tackle complex sustainability issues affecting agriculture, business, and public policy.

About the PhD Programme

The Doctorate in Sustainability and ESG Agenda aims to develop researchers with advanced expertise in sustainable development and ESG principles. The programme combines academic research with practical approaches to addressing contemporary environmental and economic challenges. Doctoral candidates are encouraged to produce research that supports sustainable growth, responsible governance, and innovation across different sectors.

Research Project: Understanding Greenwashing

The featured research project for this call investigates greenwashing from multiple perspectives. Greenwashing refers to situations where organizations present themselves as environmentally responsible without fully supporting those claims through genuine sustainable practices. The project seeks to deepen understanding of this phenomenon through interdisciplinary research. Key objectives include:

  • Analyzing why companies adopt greenwashing practices.
  • Understanding the mechanisms behind misleading environmental claims.
  • Evaluating the effects of greenwashing on consumers.
  • Assessing the environmental and market consequences of greenwashing.
  • Exploring the impact on consumer trust and business credibility.
  • Developing practical strategies to reduce or eliminate greenwashing in organizations.
  • Supporting more transparent and sustainable business practices.

The research contributes to current debates surrounding ESG reporting, corporate responsibility, sustainable agriculture, and ethical marketing.

Academic Field

The doctoral position is offered within the following academic area:

Main Research Field

  • Agricultural Sciences

Research Subfield

  • Agricultural Products

Italian Academic Discipline

  • Agricultural, Food Economics and Rural Appraisal (AGRI-01/A)

The programme is particularly relevant for applicants interested in agricultural economics, food systems, sustainability policy, ESG performance, and rural development.

Number of Funded Positions

For the 2026/2027 academic year, the university is offering: 5 Funded PhD Positions. Successful applicants will join the XLII doctoral cycle and conduct research under the supervision of experienced academic staff.

Who Can Apply?

The call is intended for applicants with a strong academic background related to sustainability and agricultural sciences. Candidates from disciplines such as the following may find the programme particularly relevant:

  • Agricultural Sciences
  • Agricultural Economics
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Sustainability Studies
  • Economics
  • Business Administration
  • ESG and Corporate Sustainability
  • Rural Development
  • Food Systems
  • Related interdisciplinary fields

Applicants should carefully review the official call for the complete admission requirements and eligibility criteria.

Why Study Sustainability and ESG?

Environmental sustainability has become one of the most important priorities for governments, businesses, investors, and consumers worldwide. Organizations are increasingly expected to demonstrate transparent ESG performance while avoiding misleading environmental claims. Research in this field supports:

  • Sustainable agricultural development.
  • Responsible corporate governance.
  • Ethical marketing.
  • Consumer protection.
  • Climate-conscious business strategies.
  • Long-term environmental sustainability.

Graduates with expertise in ESG and sustainability are in growing demand across academia, government agencies, international organizations, financial institutions, consulting firms, and private companies. This doctoral opportunity offers several advantages for researchers interested in sustainability and agricultural economics. Highlights include:

  • Five funded PhD positions.
  • Research focused on ESG and sustainability.
  • Opportunity to investigate the growing issue of greenwashing.
  • Interdisciplinary academic environment.
  • Research with practical policy and business relevance.
  • Strong career opportunities in academia and industry.
  • Doctoral training in Italy.

As sustainability continues to shape global economic and environmental policies, this programme provides valuable expertise in one of today’s fastest-growing research fields.

Career Opportunities

Completing a PhD in Sustainability and ESG Agenda can open opportunities in:

  • Universities and research institutes
  • Government ministries
  • International organizations
  • Agricultural policy agencies
  • ESG consulting firms
  • Sustainability departments
  • Corporate social responsibility (CSR) teams
  • Environmental NGOs
  • Food and agriculture organizations
  • International development agencies

Important Dates

Application Deadline 10 September 2026 Closing Time 12:00 PM (Italian Time) Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications before the deadline to avoid technical issues with online submission.

How to Apply

Before submitting your application, carefully review:

Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many PhD positions are available?

The university is offering five funded PhD positions for the XLII Cycle (Academic Year 2026/2027).

What is the main research topic?

The featured research project focuses on greenwashing, including its causes, impacts on consumers and markets, and strategies for reducing misleading environmental claims.

Which academic field does this PhD belong to?

The programme is offered within Agricultural Sciences, with a specialization in Agricultural, Food Economics and Rural Appraisal.

Who should apply?

Graduates with backgrounds in agricultural sciences, sustainability, economics, environmental studies, business, ESG, or related disciplines are encouraged to apply, subject to the official admission requirements.

Is the programme funded?

Yes. The call offers five funded doctoral positions.

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 10 September 2026 at 12:00 PM (Italian Time) 

Why is research on greenwashing important?

Greenwashing affects consumer confidence, market transparency, and environmental accountability. Research in this area helps improve corporate sustainability practices and supports more credible ESG reporting.

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