The PhD program in Nanotechnology is a highly multidisciplinary program, offering a dynamic environment where renowned research centers connect with a vibrant community of young scientists.
The program prepares students for both experimental and theoretical research, ranging from fundamental studies to applied industrial research. Key areas include advanced characterization techniques, nanofabrication, self-assembly, soft matter, nanoscale physics, bionanotechnology, nanochemistry, and nanocatalysis. With an interdisciplinary approach, the program bridges chemistry, engineering, physics, biology, and medicine.
Entirely in English, it offers a collaborative and international environment, preparing students for careers in academia and industry. Strong partnerships with research institutions and companies provide also unique career opportunities, including industrial research labs and production-site visits.
The program is also partner of the international network “Physical and Chemistry of Advanced Materials” (PCAM), which promotes internationalization through the exchange of students.
The goal of the PhD program is to train researchers and professionals capable of designing, developing, and characterizing nanomaterials and nanostructured materials (NSM), as well as tools and devices for applications in nanotechnology. Thanks to the highly interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of the training provided, students will be well-equipped to address complex scientific and technological problems.
The general research objectives include:
1. Synthesis and engineering of nanomaterials and NSM
2. Development of techniques for the study, manipulation, and visualization of nanomaterials and NSM at the nanoscale
3. Investigation of the relationships between the structure and properties of materials
4. Development of theoretical approaches and molecular modeling techniques for nanomaterials and phenomena relevant to nanotechnologies
5. Development of sensors for detecting biomolecules or compounds
6. Application of nanotechnologies, nanomaterials, and NSM in energy research
7. Application of nanotechnologies, nanomaterials, and NSM in the medical, pharmaceutical, and biomedical sectors.
The program is open to graduates from various disciplines (physics, chemistry, engineering, biology, biotechnology, medicine, pharmaceutical technology) who aim to acquire high-level training by attending courses and seminars in fields beyond their initial specialization and engaging in research collaborations with (inter)national
A PhD in Nanotechnology offers opportunities of employment in sectors that are the most varied given the wide range of applications of nanotechnologies: food, energy, electronics, manufacturing, medicine, biology, physics, chemistry, cultural heritage. The Doctorate course in Nanotechnology at the University of Trieste, characterized by a very strong multidisciplinarity, trains professional figures suitable for covering roles of researcher/ research and development managers/ laboratory or project managers in public and private structures where are required skills to manage research projects that involve the interaction of specialists from various disciplines.
The PhD in Nanotechnology can also hold positions of organizational-managerial responsibility in the industrial and service sectors linked to advanced technologies and innovation. The strong collaboration with research institutes and organizations in both the Italian and cross-border territory and with companies also offers the new research doctors numerous placement opportunities. From surveys carried out in recent years it results that more than 90% of the students is employed in occupations directly related to their PhD in Nanotechnology.