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ADA University is delighted to announce the continuation of its international PhD study opportunities in collaboration with leading Italian universities: University of Bologna (UniBo), Politecnico di Milano (PoliMi), and Politecnico di Torino (PoliTo).

This initiative provides talented Azerbaijani researchers the chance to pursue doctoral studies in Italy in the framework of Italy- Azerbaijan University, engage in advanced interdisciplinary research, and benefit from an inspiring international academic environment. The program aims to develop a new generation of highly qualified scholars who will contribute to ADA University’s academic and research growth upon completion of their studies.

Through these partnerships, selected candidates will explore innovative research topics in areas such as Agriculture and Food Science, Architecture and Design, and Computer and Electrical Engineering — fields that align closely with ADA University’s strategic priorities and future faculty development plans.

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

Program Focus Areas:

1. Agriculture and Food Science (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 and food innovation. Prioritized fields include:

• Agronomy and agricultural chemistry

  • Agricultural engineering and water management

  • Agricultural and food economics and policy

  • Food system sustainability assessment

  • Animal production and processing

  • Entomology

  • Food processing and safety

  • Tree and fruit production systems

These focus areas reflect the University of Bologna’s strong commitment to developing sustainable and resilient agricultural systems through interdisciplinary and applied research.

2. Architecture and Design (Politecnico di Milano): 

Candidates are invited to submit research proposals within the broad fields of Architecture, Urban Planning, and Design, emphasizing sustainable, inclusive, and innovative approaches to the built environment. Applicants are required to formulate their research proposal in one of the following general areas:

1. History of Architecture and Design

   • History of Architecture

   • History of the City and Urban History

2. Representation and Survey

   • Representation for Architecture and Design

   • Digital Surveying and Heritage Documentation

   • Geometrical Survey, Advanced Survey, and Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM)

   • Methods and Techniques for the Diagnosis of Cultural Heritage

3. Architectural and Interior Design

   • Typological and Morphological Studies in Architecture

   • Adaptive Reuse and Architectural Recycling

   • Sustainable Architecture and Design Strategies

   • Contemporary Theories and Methods in Interior Design

   • Urban Health, Healthcare Architecture, Healthy Buildings, and Infrastructures

4. Urban Planning and Design

   • Sustainable Strategies for Urban and Territorial Transformation

   • Inclusive and Resilient Approaches to Urban Design

   • Design, Ecology, and Technology for Sustainable Territories

   • New Paradigms of Environmental Urbanism

      

5. Design and Prototyping

   • Making and Digital Prototyping in Contemporary Design Education

   • Craft and Innovation in Design Research

      

6. Landscape and Ecology

   • Landscape Design for Ecological and Cultural Transformation

   • Design-Driven Methods for Climate Adaptation and Resource Regeneration

These research directions represent Politecnico di Milano’s commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in design, architecture, and urban studies in response to global environmental and social challenges.

3. Computer and Control Engineering / Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Politecnico di Torino):

This program provides opportunities for advanced doctoral research in emerging technological domains, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Possible research directions include:

1.  Computer and Control Engineering

   • Artificial intelligence and machine learning

   • Computer systems engineering

   • Computer architecture and Computer Aided Design

   • Data science, Artificial Vision and AI

   • Computer graphics and Multimedia

   • Software engineering and Mobile computing

   • Control and system engineering

   • Cybersecurity

   • Parallel and distributed systems, Quantum computing

   • Electronics and telecommunications

      

2.    Electrical and Electronics Engineering

   • Electronics and telecommunications

   • Embedded systems and automation

   • Renewable energy technologies and smart grid

   • Sustainable and intelligent infrastructure

   • Electronic systems and devices

   • Controls, Automation and Robotics

   • Electromagnetics

   • Power and energy conversion

   • Power systems 

Through these areas, Politecnico di Torino fosters excellence in scientific research aimed at developing sustainable and technology-driven solutions for future global challenges.

Program Duration:

Doctoral studies typically last three to four years, depending on the host university’s requirements, and involve full-time research, coursework, and completion of a PhD thesis.

Program Highlights:

• Study at Leading Italian Universities: Join top-ranked European institutions recognized for excellence in research and innovation.

• Comprehensive Financial Support: Candidates admitted to the PhD programs may benefit from full funding packages covering tuition, research, and living costs.

• Global Academic Network: Experience collaboration with international scholars, joint projects, and participation in global academic events.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must:

• Be citizens the of Azerbaijan Republic;

  • Hold a relevant master’s degree (or be in the final year of a master’s program);

  • Demonstrate English proficiency (minimum IELTS 6.5 or equivalent);

  • Possess a strong academic record and clear research orientation;

  • Provide a well-defined research proposal aligning with the expertise of the host university (preferably at the pre-selection stage);

  • Teaching experience is an advantage.

Application Procedure:

The admission process consists of the following stages:

1. Pre-Selection at ADA University:
2. Application to Partner Universities: 
3. Scholarship Application: 

Applications are reviewed by the ADA University Selection Committee based on academic merit, research readiness, English language proficiency, and motivation. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.

Successful candidates proceed to apply formally to the PhD programs at UniBo, PoliMi, or PoliTo in accordance with each university’s admission procedures.

Those admitted to Italian universities may apply for support through the “Study Abroad” State Program (2022–2028) or through ADA University support packages.

Throughout the entire process, candidates will receive guidance and support from ADA University’s PhD Support and Development Department.

Application Requirements : 

Apply online via https://ada.edu.az/apply-to-phd-italy and submit the following materials by January 5, 2026:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV);

2. Statement of purpose (max. 500 words)- outlining your research interests, motivation, and how your background fits the chosen program;

3. Writing sample- a sample of your academic work (e.g., Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis, or a research paper demonstrating your research and writing skills);

4. Proof of English proficiency.

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

For any enquiries, please contact phd@ada.edu.az