Program Overview

PhD in Structural and Geotechnical Engineering

The three-year Doctoral Program in Structural and Geotechnical Engineering is the third level of the Italian University education system. It guarantees education in scientific research and provides necessary skills to carry out research activities, also at international level, and professional activities of high qualification with particular reference to topics related to Solid and Structural Mechanics and Geotechnics, foundations and soils included.

Presentation

In 2020 (36th Cycle) the PhD program was classified as INTERNATIONAL, and in 2021 (37th Cycle) as INTERNATIONAL, INTERSECTORAL and INTERDISCIPLINARY, according to ANVUR criteria (Guidelines for the accreditation of doctoral offices and courses ANVUR_Note no. 3315_1-2- 2019).

Research Areas

• SOLIDS AND STRUCTURAL MECHANICS: The interest is focused in the scientific and teaching activities related to mechanics of solids, materials and structures.
• STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING: The interest is in the scientific and educational training on theories and techniques directed to both the conceptual design and design of new buildings/bridges (constructions in general) and the assessment and structural rehabilitation of existing ones.
• GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING: This interest is in the scientific and educational training related to principles, theories and analytical, computational and experimental methods for the physical-mechanical modelling of soils and rocks.

Doctoral Program Structure

The Doctoral Program in Structural and Geotechnical Engineering develops its relevant topics in Civil Engineering and Architecture. The themes may have wider declines to other sectors such as Industrial Engineering (e.g. mechanical, aerospace, naval) or the Mathematical Physics, being always characterized by the attention to the theoretical, experimental, computational and applicative aspects.

Curricula

The Doctoral Program in Structural Engineering and Geotechnics is developed in two curricula:

• a) Structural Engineering and Mechanics
• b) Geotechnical Engineering

Research Topics

The research topics are several and characterized by rigorous and adequate detailed studies. Other than specific topics of the two curricula, interdisciplinary works are encouraged also in collaboration with other Institutions (Universities, public and private Authorities).

Training Activities

Training activities include courses and seminars. Thesis works considering transversal themes that can direct future Doctors not only in academic and research fields, but also towards high-level consulting qualified professional paths (e.g. Infrastructure, Transport, Cultural Heritage, Environment, Industry) are also favored.