Call for Application: PhD Studies Opportunity 2025

Academic

19.11.2024

ADA University is pleased to announce an exceptional opportunity for qualified and motivated candidates to pursue their PhD studies at renowned Italian partner institutions: University of Bologna (UniBo), Politecnico di Milano (PoliMi), and Politecnico di Torino (PoliTo).

Leveraging the diverse strengths of each institution, this unique PhD program offers candidates the chance to engage in cutting-edge research, benefit from a vibrant academic environment, gain international exposure, and collaborate with distinguished scholars from these esteemed partner universities. The program is designed to foster innovation, academic excellence, and leadership in a global context, preparing graduates for successful careers in academia, research, and industry.

The primary goal of ADA University in facilitating this opportunity is to cultivate a future generation of faculty members who will contribute to ADA University’s academic growth. By supporting talented candidates in specialized fields such as Agriculture, Food Science, Architecture, and Design, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, ADA University aims to foster expertise that aligns with the university’s strategic vision. Graduates of these PhD programs will bring valuable knowledge, global perspectives, and advanced research skills back to ADA University, ensuring continued excellence in education and innovation.

Through a bilateral partnership with each institution, ADA University will pre-select candidates who will then have the opportunity to apply directly to PhD programs offered by our Italian partner universities.

Program Focus Areas:

Agriculture and Food Science (University of Bologna): Engage in groundbreaking research that addresses global challenges related to food security, sustainability, and agricultural technology with a focus on innovative solutions for food systems and sustainable agricultural practices.
Architecture and Design (Politecnico di Milano): Contribute to cutting-edge studies in architecture, urban planning, and design, gaining insights from experts shaping the future of the built environments.
Computer Engineering and Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Politecnico di Torino): Pursue advanced research in computer and electrical engineering, with emphasis on emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, and sustainable energy solutions.

Specific sub-areas

In certain programs, specific sub-areas of focus have been outlined:

Agriculture and Food Science Focus Areas	University of Bologna	Candidates are encouraged to submit research proposals in key scientific areas that address pressing challenges in food security, sustainable practices, and agricultural innovation. Prioritized fields include agronomy, agricultural chemistry, agricultural engineering, and agricultural water management. Additionally, research topics in agricultural and food economics and policy—particularly in food system sustainability assessment—are welcomed. Candidates may also explore advanced studies in animal farming and processing, entomology, food processing and safety, and tree and fruit production systems, all aimed at developing sustainable and resilient agricultural solutions.
Architecture and Urban Design Focus Areas	Politecnico di Milano	Candidates are invited to explore research topics in architectural and urban design, conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage, and innovation in building technologies and materials. Emphasis is also placed on digital innovation in architectural design and construction, environmental sustainability and ecological transition, healthiness of the built environment, urban wellbeing, and the regeneration of fragile built environments, with the aim of fostering resilient, sustainable, and culturally sensitive design solutions.
Design Focus Areas	Politecnico di Milano	Research proposals are encouraged in the diverse field of design, covering areas such as interior design, product design, communication design, and user studies. Other areas of focus include design materials and technology, advanced manufacturing, interaction design, and immersive technology, and circular and sustainable design. Further research may address design and cultural studies, strategic and service design, and inclusive design, aimed at advancing innovative and human-centered design practices.
Urban Planning Focus Areas	Politecnico di Milano	Candidates may submit research proposals focusing onurban studies and policies, climate resilience of cities, smart cities, regional and landscape planning, and urban planning for climate change adaptation. This research aims to contribute to creating sustainable, resilient urban environments that respond to contemporary global challenges.
Landscape and Public Space Design Focus Areas	Politecnico di Milano	Research proposals are sought in landscape design and public and open space design, with a focus on creating sustainable and accessible public spaces that enhance urban life quality.

The PhD programs require a study and research commitment of at least three to four years (depending on the requirements of each university), including full-time study, research activities, and the development of a PhD thesis.

Key Highlights:

Study Abroad at Top Italian Universities: Enroll at UniBo, PoliMi, or PoliTo, institutions known for their excellence in research and education.
Fully-Funded Opportunities: Competitive funding packages covering tuition, living costs, and research expenses.
International Collaboration: Join a truly global academic network with opportunities to participate in international conferences, and joint research initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria:

The PhD study opportunity is intended for Azerbaijani citizens who meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for the pre-selection stage:

Hold a relevant master's degree or equivalent qualification.
Be in the final year of an MA/MS program.
Demonstrate proficiency in English (minimum 6.5 IELTS or equivalent).
Have a strong academic record and proven research potential.
Provide a well-defined research proposal aligning with the expertise of the host university (preferably at the pre-selection stage)

Application Procedure:

The admission process consists of the following stages:

Application Review and Interviews: The ADA University Selection Committee will evaluate applications based on English proficiency, academic background, content knowledge, research experience, aspirations, and achievements in the field.
Application to Partner Universities: Candidates who pass the interview stage at ADA University will be guided on applying to the Italian universities’ PhD programs according to each institution’s admission procedures.
Scholarship Application: For those admitted to an Italian university, the final step will be applying for a state-funded scholarship through the “Study Abroad” State program (2022-2028).

ADA University’s PhD Support and Development Department will be supporting the candidates throughout the application process.

Required Application Documents: Apply online at https://ada.edu.az/apply-to-phd-italy and submit the following documents by December 23, 2024:

Curriculum Vitae (CV);
Statement of purpose (SOP): Outline your research interests, motivations for pursuing a PhD, and how your academic and research background align with your chosen field of study (maximum 500 words);
Writing sample: Include a sample of your academic work (e.g., Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis, or a research paper demonstrating your research and writing skills);
Proof of language proficiency: Provide documentation of English proficiency.

Only shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview with ADA University Selection Committee.

For any inquiries, you can contact us at phd@ada.edu.az