The PhD Programme addresses the challenges of sustainability, circularity, energy transition and ecosystem management, promoting the shift from linear models to regenerative, integrated systems based on the use of renewable resources and energy.
The objective is to train researchers with advanced and interdisciplinary skills, capable of understanding and managing the complexity of natural, productive and social systems in the context of Global Change and according to the One Health paradigm. The programme integrates knowledge in sustainable chemistry, biology, energy, environmental management, advanced materials, digitalization and sustainability assessment.
The main training and research areas concern the design of safe, sustainable and circular processes, products and materials; the integration of renewable energy sources into production processes; the development of solar fuels and low-carbon technologies; the valorization of waste and CO₂; ecosystem monitoring; the assessment of environmental and biological impacts; life-cycle analysis; modelling, digitalization and the application of artificial intelligence to sustainability.
The training model is research-driven and is structured into an initial phase aimed at consolidating advanced and interdisciplinary skills, a phase dedicated to the development of the research project in national and international contexts, and a final phase focused on scientific autonomy, valorization of research results and technology transfer.
The programme is strongly oriented towards problem solving, teamwork and collaboration with academic, industrial and institutional partners. Activities include mobility periods at universities, research centres and companies, participation in advanced schools, and involvement in industrial and international research projects.
The PhD Programme prepares highly qualified profiles for the industrial, public, private and research sectors, capable of contributing to the challenges set by the European Green Deal, Horizon Europe and the United Nations 2030 Agenda. The programme also promotes the creation of new entrepreneurial opportunities, including high-technology start-ups.
Thanks to advanced scientific infrastructures, an international environment and a well-established network of collaborations, the PhD Programme is fully aligned with the University’s strategic planning and with the needs of the local area, contributing to the development of advanced skills in sustainability, ecological and energy transition, and environmental protection.