PhD in Structural, Seismic and Geotechnical Engineering

Program Overview

With an emphasis on advanced analysis methods, sophisticated computational tools, and the influence of external environments, this interdisciplinary program prepares graduates for careers in academia, research and development institutions, and professional activities in structural analysis, advanced design monitoring, and more.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The PhD program in Structural, Seismic and Geotechnical Engineering (SSGE) is a highly interdisciplinary program that focuses on understanding, modeling, and controlling the behavior of structural materials, biomaterials, metamaterials, soils, structures, microsystems, and the interaction between the external environment and buildings. The program requires advanced analysis methods and sophisticated computational mechanics tools. The theoretical and applied study of materials and structures goes hand in hand with the analysis of the interactions between structures and the environment, deriving both from natural and anthropic activities. The methods developed within the SSGE are also useful in other technical-scientific areas, whenever it is necessary to understand and control the mechanical aspects in order to guarantee both design reliability and structural safety, functionality, and durability.

Outline:

The program offers a list of courses that can be viewed by selecting a given academic year. The courses provided in recent years could be offered in the near future.

Assessment:

Careers:

The high-level training offered by the PhD program in Structural Engineering, Seismic Engineering, and Geotechnics allows PhD students to continue their work along three paths: (a) in the academic field; (b) within other public or private research institutions or companies with a focus on research and development; (c) professional activities (typically as an independent freelancer or high-level consultant, mainly as a structural analyst or in the field of advanced structural design and monitoring – Civil and Environmental Engineering and Industrial Engineering). The interdisciplinary approach of the PhD program allows to enhance the experience gained during the study period in different fields: from the design of large infrastructures to the conservation and restoration of monumental and architectural heritage, from seismic design to slope stability, without forgetting the numerous problems common to different branches of Industrial Engineering (mechanical, aerospace, nuclear, and bioengineering).

Other:

Italian and international citizens can apply. They are required to have a degree according to the pre-existing laws D.M. 11.1999 n. 509, or a Master of Science degree according to D.M. 11.1999 n. 509, or a Master of Science according to D.M. 10.2004 n. 270, or a similar academic title obtained abroad, equivalent in duration and content to the Italian title, with a total duration of university studies of at least five years. Certified knowledge of the English language is a requirement for admission. A limited number of fellowships are awarded each year to candidates who come first in the selection process.