Free University of Bozen-Bolzano
PhD in Computer Science
Bolzano, Italy
PhD
DURATION
3 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
EUR 200 / per year **
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* 11. June 2025 (noon - 12:00)
** 200 € for the first academic year
Key Summary
What makes our PhD graduates ideal candidates to work as researchers both in academia and in the IT sector is their ability to research and understand theoretical and applied research topics, the collaborative approach to work, and their dissemination and writing skills. Moreover, problem solving skills and the ability to work autonomously enable them to become key players in every field of IT, as independent consultants or in management roles.
At the end of our programme, graduates are equipped with a vast knowledge of IT, from the formal and theoretical aspects to the latest developments in methodology and technology.
PhD students can choose any of the three research themes offered by the faculty. They are different not only in the main topics explored, but also in the research methodology applied. In the Knowledge and Data area, students investigate the topics of Intelligent Integration and Access to Data, Conceptual and Cognitive Modelling, and Process-aware Information Systems Management. In the Software and Systems Engineering area, work follows an empirical approach based on the implementation of prototypes and techniques and the carrying out and analysis of experiments. Finally, the Information and Database Systems Engineering area adopts a hybrid approach, with a focus on efficient implementation and user interaction. This large spectrum of topics offers PhD candidates a wide range of options to develop their own research and great flexibility to match their interests.
The aim of the PhD program is to allow students to acquire the abilities and skills to carry out independent research in the area of computer science. This also involves the ability to communicate ideas clearly and efficiently orally and in writing and the ability to work in groups.
In order to conclude the program successfully, the PhD student has to elaborate a research topic independently and this research must contribute significantly to current knowledge in the area of computer science. Due to the time limits of the program, PhD students will focus on their research work. To achieve this, they are supported by a structured PhD program.
The Stages of the PhD
The program is divided into four stages, respectively ending at months 6, 12, 24, and 36 of the program.
- Phase 1 first six months. The student identifies with the support of their supervisors the area of research, a specific topic within the area, and one or more possible approaches to the topic. The student acquires the necessary foundations for carrying out the research, for instance, by attending courses or supervised literature study.
- Phase 2 second half of the first year. The student spends time both on the acquisition of skills, for instance, by attending courses or supervised study of literature, and on the first research steps.
- Phase 3 second year. and is to be spent on an in-depth exploration of the research topic.
- Phase 4 comprises the third year. The aim is to complete the research and document it in a thesis.
Semester 2
Exam at end of 1st year
Semester 2
PhD course/seminar 1st year
Semester 1-2
Exam at end of 2nd year
Semester 1-2
Publication 1
Semester 1-2
Publication 2
Free Choice Courses
Semester 1
Advanced Scientific English
Semester 1
Materials and sensors for Food Engineering and Biotechnologies
Semester 1
Theory of Scientific Method
Semester 1
Flexible Electronics: From Materials to Systems and Applications
Semester 1
Systems Engineering For The Design Of Cyber-Physical Systems
Semester 2
User Research
Semester 2
Advanced applications of fluid mechanics
Semester 2
Modelling Methods for Applied Physics
Fieldwork Abroad
During the three years of the Ph.D. program, candidates are required to commit full-time to the Ph.D., and the program will include both working on the research project and learning activities. Students are also strongly encouraged to carry out part of their research in another university or research center, for a longer period, ranging from 1 month and up to 18 months. This is an extremely valuable opportunity for a Ph.D. candidate to study specific aspects of their research in depth under the direct supervision of world experts in their chosen research topic. It is also an opportunity to carry out research in highly stimulating and competitive contexts while exchanging ideas with other scholars and establishing an early network of colleagues in the world of research.
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