The PhD Programme in Civil Engineering and Architecture places the built environment and territory at the heart of its scientific agenda. It regards them as a complex field of inquiry encompassing historic and contemporary built systems, transport and water infrastructure, the environment, and natural and human-made landscapes. Particular attention is given to the interrelationships between environmental, economic and social systems. This broad scope encourages an interdisciplinary approach to the issues under investigation and promotes the integration of fundamental and applied research.
Within this framework, the programme’s primary objective is to provide rigorous research training and equip doctoral candidates with the methods and tools required to design and carry out research projects, as well as to teach at higher-education level. Particular emphasis is placed on developing the ability to independently formulate original research programmes within the doctoral programme’s areas of study.
The programme also pursues technical and practical objectives consistent with the professional dimensions of civil engineering and architecture. It combines fundamental and applied research in areas with significant societal impact, strengthening candidates’ ability to identify and address the relationships between engineering, architecture, technology, the environment, the economy and society.
To support the development of doctoral research, the programme promotes laboratory-based activities addressing the engineering, architectural, technological, environmental, economic and social dimensions of the design, construction and integration of buildings, transport and water infrastructure, natural water systems, and soil-protection systems.
The PhD Programme has a strong international focus. It supports extended periods of study and research abroad, maintains international collaborations, and establishes co-supervision and cotutelle agreements with scholars and institutions overseas. Agreements with the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Toulouse and Université Bordeaux Montaigne enable doctoral candidates from the partner institutions to follow joint study pathways leading to the award of a double degree.
The advanced knowledge and skills acquired throughout the programme, together with the ongoing stimulus provided by the interdisciplinary Academic Board, prepare graduates to address the complex challenges involved in transforming territories in the broadest sense. Graduates are equipped to do so in ways that promote environmentally sustainable development, the prevention and mitigation of natural hazards, and the responsible use of natural resources.
Career opportunities
Doctoral candidates receive high-level training that enables them to tackle complex issues related to the management of natural environments and urbanised areas, understood in their broadest sense. Their work is grounded in the principles of environmentally sustainable development, the prevention and mitigation of natural hazards, and the responsible stewardship of natural resources.
In addition to academic careers at Italian and international universities and research institutes, the programme prepares graduates for senior roles in public administrations responsible for spatial planning and environmental management, as well as in private-sector technical, professional and business organisations operating in the territorial and environmental fields.
Coordinator: Francesco Viola
Vice-coordinator: Sabrina Lai
Contact: dotticar@unica.it
