Become part of FBK vibrant community of international researchers, postdocs, and alumni committed to solving real-world challenges.
Discover some compelling reasons to join FBK as a PhD student, from access to cutting-edge research environments to personalized mentorship and professional growth opportunities.
At Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK), you’ll find a thriving research community of over 500 researchers, working across two scientific hubs and twelve highly reputed research centers. FBK is committed to pushing the boundaries of science and technology through interdisciplinary approaches, with a strong focus on real-world applications.
Looking to connect with fellow researchers?
Join us at the PhD Day—an annual event where students across all fields come together to share insights, network, and explore the incredible research happening at FBK. Become part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary community and take your research to the next level!
FBK stands out as one of Italy’s leading research institutions, recognized both nationally and globally for its scientific excellence. The combination of top-tier researchers, cutting-edge infrastructure, and strategic partnerships with prestigious research centers and industries worldwide places FBK at the forefront of innovation.
In the latest Research Quality Assessment (VQR 2015-2019), conducted by the Italian National Agency for the Evaluation of Universities and Research Institutes (ANVUR), FBK achieved 1st place in Engineering and Computer Science, Historical Studies, and Political and Social Sciences, while ranking 3rd in Physics. These results confirm FBK’s position as a top-tier research hub, comparable to the world’s best institutions.
FBK not only fosters academic growth but also equips its PhD students with the skills to drive forward innovation and contribute meaningfully to their fields.
At FBK, PhD students gain access to a vast network of national and international companies and universities, offering them unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and research. This unique environment opens doors to partnerships that can elevate your academic experience and career prospects.
Many PhD programs encourage research stays abroad, allowing students to engage with top-tier institutions worldwide. Additionally, students are supported in attending international conferences and workshops, both in Italy and globally, where they can showcase their work, exchange ideas, and expand their professional network.
By participating in these dynamic experiences, FBK students not only enhance their research but also grow as global innovators in their fields.
At FBK, we go beyond research excellence by offering a wealth of learning experiences to empower our PhD students. In addition to the courses required by partner Doctoral Schools, students have access to:
For those interested in exploring the entrepreneurial side of research, FBK collaborates with organizations like EIT-Digital, HIT and many more, which regularly organize entrepreneurial workshops and initiatives open to all FBK PhD students. This blend of academic rigor and practical experience prepares our students to thrive in diverse career paths, from academia to industry.
Trento is a small city in the heart of the Alps and just a stone’s throw from the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009, Trento offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and modern convenience. This small yet vibrant city consistently ranks among the top in Italy for quality of life, thanks to its excellent urban ecosystem, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainability.
As part of the Autonomous Province of Trento, the city thrives as a hub for higher education, scientific research, and technological innovation, making it a perfect home for students and researchers. Trento has earned global recognition for its implementation of the Smart City concept, where cutting-edge technology enhances everyday life and services.
Beyond its academic excellence, Trento is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s winter sports or summer trekking, the region’s pristine environment and diverse recreational activities make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Its combination of cultural richness and openness, influenced by its historical position between Italic and Germanic cultures, makes Trentino one of Italy’s most welcoming and inclusive regions.
Explore the endless possibilities that Trento and the Trentino region offer: from breathtaking trekking routes to a vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone in this extraordinary place.
FBK is a multicultural and international environment. Our PhD Program counts more than 180 PhD students from 25 countries of the five continents, working on different topics, including Information and Communication Technologies, Material and Microsystems, Telecommunications and Humanities. FBK researchers are of 36 different nationalities.
We pay great attention to welcoming students and researchers from all over the world. Our Welcome Office is here to help you in all your needs while joining us and later, for example about your entry visas and residence permits, accommodation, registration to the National Healthcare Service, bank account opening, Italian language courses, and other practical issues.
Join us: became an FBK International PhD Program student. Get in touch with us ([email protected]) and meet or call the PhD Program team to know more about the program or any other practical issue.
Browse our FAQs page to clarify your doubts; should you not be satisfied after reading them carefully, please contact us directly.
