50 Fully Funded PhD Scholarships at Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM): Applications Now Open for 2025/2026
The Scuola Superiore Meridionale (SSM) in Naples, Italy, has officially opened its call for applications for its 41st cycle of PhD programs for the academic year 2025–2026. This prestigious opportunity includes 50 fully funded scholarships across ten interdisciplinary doctoral programs, each designed to nurture academic excellence, international collaboration, and research that addresses global challenges.
With a clear commitment to academic rigor and innovation, SSM offers a world-class research environment in southern Italy, supported by highly qualified faculty and access to extensive research networks. The deadline to apply is 27 August 2025 at 14:00 CET, with reference letters due by 29 August 2025 at 14:00 CET.
A Unique Opportunity in the Heart of Naples
Established to promote advanced education and research, SSM serves as a high-level center for doctoral studies and postdoctoral training. It brings together scholars and students from around the world, cultivating an intellectually stimulating environment at the crossroads of tradition and innovation.
The four-year PhD programs at SSM provide full scholarships, which cover tuition fees and offer a monthly stipend, making them a compelling choice for talented individuals seeking to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research without financial burden.
Overview of the Available PhD Programs
Each of the ten programs accepts five doctoral students per cycle, creating an intimate and supportive academic community within each discipline. The programs are:
1. Ancient Mediterranean Archaeology and Cultures (ACMA)
Focus: Historical research, cultural heritage management, and archaeological preservation.
Coordinator: Prof. Carlo Rescigno
📧 [email protected]
2. Clinical and Translational Oncology (CTO)
Focus: Biomedical research aimed at bridging lab discoveries with clinical applications.
Coordinator: Prof. Michelino De Laurentiis
📧 [email protected]
3. Cosmology, Space Science & Space Technology (SPACE)
Focus: Theoretical and observational cosmology, astrophysics, and space engineering.
Coordinator: Prof. Salvatore Capozziello
📧 [email protected]
4. Genomic and Experimental Medicine (GEM)
Focus: Genomics, gene therapy, and translational medical research.
Coordinator: Prof. Brunella Franco
📧 [email protected]
5. Global History and Governance (GHG)
Focus: Transnational history, political systems, and institutional development.
Coordinator: Prof. Daniela Luigia Caglioti
📧 [email protected]
6. Law and Organizational Studies for the Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion (LOSPD)
Focus: Legal frameworks and organizational change for equality and human rights.
Coordinator: Prof. Luigi Maria Sicca
📧 [email protected]
7. Mathematical and Physical Sciences for Advanced Materials and Technologies (MPHS)
Focus: Applied mathematics and physics for innovation in materials science.
Coordinator: Prof. Nicola Fusco
📧 [email protected]
8. Modeling and Engineering Risk and Complexity (MERC)
Focus: Systems engineering, risk analysis, and computational modeling.
Coordinator: Prof. Mario di Bernardo
📧 [email protected]
9. Molecular Sciences for Earth and Space (MOSES)
Joint Program with Scuola Normale Superiore (Pisa)
Focus: Molecular chemistry and its applications in planetary and space sciences.
Coordinator: Prof. Nadia Rega
📧 [email protected]
10. Texts, Traditions and Book Cultures. Italian and Romance Studies (TTCL)
Focus: Philology, literature, and manuscript traditions of the Romance-speaking world.
Coordinator: Prof. Andrea Mazzucchi
📧 [email protected]
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must hold one of the following:
- An Italian “Laurea magistrale” or “laurea specialistica” (Master’s degree equivalent)
- A four- or five-year degree under the pre-Bologna Italian system
- A foreign Master’s degree of equivalent level (five years minimum)
All applications must be submitted online through the official application portal. Submissions via email or post will not be accepted.
Application Process and Important Dates
Application Deadline: 27 August 2025 at 14:00 CET
Reference Letters Due: 29 August 2025 at 14:00 CET
Candidates must complete their application through the designated portal. The submission includes personal information, academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, research interests, and recommendation letters. Applicants are encouraged to carefully read the full application guidelines and consult their desired program’s coordinator for any questions.
Why Choose SSM?
SSM stands out not only for its scholarship offerings but also for its commitment to developing researchers who are ready to face today’s most complex challenges—from cancer and climate change to inclusive governance and cultural preservation. Nestled in a city with a rich historical legacy, the school offers an inspiring backdrop for academic growth.
For those seeking rigorous academic training, generous funding, international exposure, and the chance to be part of an ambitious intellectual community—Scuola Superiore Meridionale offers an unmatched opportunity.
Don’t miss the chance to study, research, and thrive at one of Italy’s rising academic institutions. Apply by 27 August 2025 and take your next step toward an exceptional academic journey.
For questions or guidance on specific programs, reach out to the program coordinators via the email addresses listed above.
