A new call for the PhD at Risk Scholarships – XLII Cycle (2026/2027) is open at the University of Padua, aimed at scholars facing conflict, persecution, or academic disruption. Funded by the Cassa di Risparmio di Padova e Rovigo Foundation, this initiative supports vulnerable researchers by offering fully funded doctoral positions, an annual stipend of up to €18,643, and additional relocation and integration assistance for at-risk international candidates seeking to pursue their academic careers safely.
Application Deadline:
- 5 June 2026 at 1:00 PM (Italy time)
Tell Me About The Scholarship:
The PhD at Risk Scholarships at the University of Padua (XLII Cycle, 2026/2027) are designed to support scholars whose academic careers have been disrupted by conflict, persecution, or humanitarian crises. Backed by the Cassa di Risparmio di Padova e Rovigo Foundation, the program provides both financial support and integration services, ensuring vulnerable researchers can safely continue their doctoral studies in Italy.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- All three-year PhD programs listed in Annex 1 of the official call.
- Open across disciplines (STEM, humanities, social sciences).
Type:
- PhD Scholarship | Italy | At-Risk Scholars
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be individuals from conflict zones or humanitarian crises.
- Be refugees or asylum seekers.
- Face political, religious, ethnic, or social persecution.
- Belong to groups denied academic freedom or civil rights.
- Meet standard PhD admission requirements at the University of Padua.
How are Candidates Selected?
- Selection considers both academic readiness and the severity of risk situation.
- Applicants must demonstrate eligibility with academic records and documentation of risk status.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Global eligibility, specifically for scholars at risk due to conflict, persecution, or systemic disruption.
Where will the Scholarship be Taken?
- University of Padua, Italy.
How Many Awards?
- Three scholarships available for the 42nd doctoral cycle.
What is the Benefit of the Scholarship?
- Annual gross stipend: €17,443 – €18,643 (depending on program).
- Full 3-year doctoral enrollment.
- Relocation and reception services in Italy.
- Integration support (academic, legal, social adaptation).
How Long Will the Scholarship Last?
- Three years (full PhD duration).
Required Documents:
- Online application form.
- Choice of PhD program (Annex 1).
- Academic records.
- Documentation proving risk status (conflict, persecution, refugee/asylum status).
How to Apply:
- Review the official call and list of eligible PhD programs (Annex 1).
- Prepare academic records and risk documentation.
- Submit application online via the University of Padua portal: https://pica.cineca.it/unipd/risk42/.
- Deadline: 5 June 2026, 1:00 PM (Italy time).
Visit the Application Webpgae for Details
