PhD in Economics at the European University Institute – Italy

Summary

The European University Institute (EUI) is inviting applications for its four-year full-time residential Doctoral Programme in Economics located in Florence, Italy, starting on 1 September 2027. Designed for aspiring economists seeking advanced research careers in academia, public policy, or international organizations, the program provides structured academic training, research supervision, and access to an international network. Applicants must hold or expect to hold a relevant master's degree (or equivalent) by 31 August 2027, demonstrate English proficiency at C1 level, and qualify for an available funding option. All admitted candidates receive scholarship funding and pay no tuition fees; self-funded applicants are not accepted. Applications must be submitted by 15 January 2027.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Economics
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Economics
Research Area	Economics and Social Sciences
Degree Required	Master's degree or an equivalent qualification
Salary	Monthly scholarship; stipend amount varies depending on the funding programme
Funding	Scholarship funding through national grants, Italian MAECI grants, EUI Special Doctoral Fellowships, or external scholarships
Contract Duration	4 years
Language	English
Deadline	2027-01-15
Required Documents	Research statement of approximately 1,500 words, Academic transcripts, GRE score, Three academic references, Evidence of a qualifying degree
Employer Address	Florence, Italy

About the Project

The doctoral programme offers an environment for advanced economic research and doctoral training. Researchers receive focused supervision to strengthen their theoretical and analytical foundations, pursue independent research in economics, and build academic networks in line with the department's research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop independent academic research in economics
• Participate in structured doctoral training and academic supervision
• Establish professional academic networks

Required Skills

• Qualifying master's degree or equivalent in accordance with funding authority rules
• English-language proficiency at C1 level
• GRE score

Who Should Apply

Aspiring economists of any nationality who hold or expect to complete a master's degree (or equivalent) by 31 August prior to start, demonstrate C1 English proficiency, and qualify for at least one eligible scholarship scheme.

Benefits

• Monthly scholarship funding
• Tuition fee waiver

About the Employer

The European University Institute is an international postgraduate research institution based in Florence, Italy, providing a research environment across various departments, including the Department of Economics.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the application deadline?

The application deadline is 15 January 2027.

What is the duration of the PhD programme?

The programme is full-time and lasts for 4 years.

Are self-funded students accepted?

No, self-funded candidates are not admitted to the programme.

Is tuition required?

Funded doctoral researchers do not pay tuition fees.

What language level is required?

Applicants must demonstrate English-language proficiency at C1 level.