4 Fully Funded PhD Positions in Cognitive and Brain Sciences at the University of Trento, Italy
Are you looking for a fully funded PhD in neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, or brain research in Europe? The University of Trento (Italy) has announced its second call for the XLII Cycle (2026/2027) of the PhD Programme in Cognitive and Brain Sciences. This prestigious doctoral programme offers four fully funded PhD scholarships for outstanding early-stage researchers interested in exploring the human brain, cognition, artificial intelligence, neuroscience, neuroimaging, psychology, and computational approaches to brain science.
The programme welcomes applications from candidates around the world and provides an excellent opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in one of Italy’s leading research universities. The PhD Programme in Cognitive and Brain Sciences at the University of Trento offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers interested in neuroscience, psychology, artificial intelligence, cognitive science, and neuroimaging.
With four fully funded scholarships, internationally funded research projects, interdisciplinary supervision, and collaborations with leading institutions such as the Italian Institute of Technology and Université Paris-Saclay, this doctoral programme provides an outstanding platform for launching a successful research career. Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare a strong research proposal, gather the required documents, and submit their applications before the 2 September 2026 deadline.
The University of Trento is internationally recognized for excellence in neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, artificial intelligence, engineering, and interdisciplinary research. The Cognitive and Brain Sciences doctoral programme combines advanced experimental research with innovative computational methods, providing students with access to world-class laboratories and international collaborations.
PhD Programme Overview
- University: University of Trento
- Country: Italy
- Programme: PhD in Cognitive and Brain Sciences
- Doctoral Cycle: XLII (42nd Cycle)
- Academic Year: 2026/2027
- Programme Duration: 3 Years
- Number of Funded Positions: 4
- Annual Scholarship: €21,750
- Scholarship Includes Salary: Yes
- Social Security Coverage: Yes
- Eligible Applicants: Early-Stage Researchers (0–4 years after graduation)
- Application Type: Second Call
Available Funded Research Topics
The programme includes four topic-specific scholarships, each linked to an innovative research project funded by leading research institutions.
1. Mapping How Brain Chemistry Shapes Whole-Brain Activity
Funding: Italian Institute of Technology (IIT)
This project focuses on understanding how brain chemistry influences large-scale brain activity and neural function.
2. Neuroimaging and Electrophysiological Biomarkers in Autism
Funding: Italian Institute of Technology (IIT)
Researchers will investigate neuroimaging and electrophysiological biomarkers that distinguish autism associated with disability from autism viewed as neurodiversity across developmental stages.
3. Investigating Predictive Neural Representations Using MEG-Based Dynamic RSA
Funding: Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) – FIS 3 Project
Project Title: NATPRED – Naturalistic Predictions: How Our Brain Anticipates the Future in a Dynamic World
This research explores how the human brain predicts future events in realistic environments using advanced neuroimaging techniques.
4. From Sound to Harmonic Structure: Cognitive Maps of Music in the Human Brain
Funding: Université Franco Italienne (UIF/UFI) – Vinci Call 2026
This scholarship is offered as a cotutelle (joint PhD) with Université Paris-Saclay, allowing candidates to conduct research under the supervision of both institutions.
Research Areas
The doctoral programme brings together expertise from multiple disciplines, including:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Brain Sciences
- Experimental Psychology
- Neuropsychology
- Neurology
- Human Physiology
- Computational Neuroscience
- Artificial Intelligence
- Neuroimaging
- Electrophysiology
- Linguistics
- Bioengineering
- Physics for Life Sciences
- Music Cognition
- Information Processing Systems
Its interdisciplinary approach enables students to collaborate with researchers across different scientific fields.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a fully funded doctoral scholarship together with several academic and research benefits. The scholarships are funded through multiple prestigious organizations, including:
- Italian Institute of Technology (IIT)
- Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR)
- Université Franco Italienne (UIF/UFI)
- University of Trento
According to the official call, these scholarships are not financed through a European Union Research Framework Programme.These include:
- Annual scholarship of €21,750
- Salary included within the scholarship
- Social security coverage
- Three years of funded doctoral research
- Access to internationally recognized research laboratories
- Supervision by leading experts in neuroscience and cognitive science
- Opportunity to participate in international collaborations
- Joint supervision opportunities for selected projects
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to candidates of all nationalities and from all countries of residence. Applicants must hold one of the following qualifications:
- Italian Laurea Magistrale
- Italian university degree awarded under previous regulations
- Second-level AFAM qualification
- Equivalent Master’s degree from a recognized foreign university
Candidates who expect to complete their degree by 31 October 2026 are also eligible to apply. Admission in this case is conditional upon submitting proof of graduation by 6 November 2026.
Selection Process
Admission is based on two stages.
1. Evaluation of Qualifications
The Admissions Committee evaluates:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic qualifications
- Research experience
- Publications (where applicable)
- Research proposal
Candidates applying for topic-specific scholarships must submit a research project directly related to the chosen scholarship topic.
Maximum Score: 60 points: Only candidates obtaining at least 36 points will be invited to the interview.
2. Interview
The interview assesses:
- Research knowledge
- Scientific background
- Motivation for doctoral research
- Understanding of the proposed research project
- Language skills
Applicants may choose to attend the interview:
- In person
- By videoconference
Maximum Score: 60 points
The total maximum score is 120 points.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline 2 September 2026 Deadline Time 4:00 PM (Italian Time)
- Degree Completion Deadline (Conditional Applicants) 31 October 2026
- Final Date to Submit Degree Certificate 6 November 2026
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the University of Trento’s application portal [http://www.unitn.it/apply/dott]. Before applying, candidates should:
- Carefully read the official call: https://www.unitn.it/en/phd/cognitive-and-brain-sciences & https://phd.unitn.it/drcimec/
- Select the scholarship topic they wish to apply for (if applicable).
- Prepare a high-quality research proposal.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Submit the application before the official deadline.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. University: University of Trento Email: phd.cobras@unitn.it
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this PhD fully funded?
Yes. All four available positions are fully funded and include an annual scholarship of €21,750.
How many scholarships are available?
The second call offers four funded PhD positions.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Applicants from all countries and all nationalities are eligible.
Can I apply before completing my Master’s degree?
Yes. Candidates expecting to graduate by 31 October 2026 may apply. Admission will be conditional until proof of graduation is submitted.
What is the selection process?
Selection includes:
- Evaluation of qualifications and research proposal
- Interview
Candidates must score at least 36 out of 60 in the qualifications assessment to proceed to the interview.
Can the interview be conducted online?
Yes. Applicants may choose either an in-person interview or a videoconference interview.
Are the scholarships linked to specific research projects?
Yes. Each scholarship supports a defined research topic, and applicants for topic-specific grants should submit a related research proposal.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 2 September 2026 at 4:00 PM (Italian Time).
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