April 12-16, 2027
Call for applications: September 15 - December 1, 2026
The PhD Academy is led by:
- University of Padua
- University of Exeter
- Tsinghua University
- Venice International University
The idea behind this proposal is that knowledge about science and humanities, strong communication skills, independent thinking and design creativity are all necessary to realize meaningful scientific displays, that attract visitors with diverse interests in a non-intimidating manner and encourage them to be pro-active. The course program will alternate lectures about fundamental concepts of public communication of science and technology, discussion of inspiring case studies in different continents, examples of public debates on timely science topics, and practical sessions that will fuel participants’ creative and collaborative skills. Introductory webinars, organized 1-2 months in advance, will illustrate the idea and program of the course.
Faculty
Francesca Di Rosa, National Research Council of Italy
Caterina Boccato, Italian National Institute of Astrophysics
Elena Canadelli, University of Padua
Angela Cassidy, University of Exeter
Zheran Wang, Tsinghua University
Alessandra Fornetti, Venice International University
Ilda Mannino, Venice International University
Invited speakers
Tinne Claes, KU Leuven
Fabrizio Lepore, architect
Massimiliano Bucchi, University of Trento
Learning outcomes for participants
Participants will acquire Transversal Skills in Science Communication with particular focus on scientific museums, exhibitions, and science centers, within the framework of basic knowledge in Science & Society. This PhD Academy proposal can be considered for the most part, if not 100%, on Transversal Skills, considering the following: i) the focus on Science Communication; ii) the Multidisciplinary team; iii) the call for students from humanities, STEM, art, architecture; iv) the promotion of collaboration and exchanges during practical sessions.
Learning outcomes include:
- creating a meaningful scientific exhibition concept;
- identifying strategies to design attractive displays for museums and exhibitions;
- creating a welcoming environment for discussing contemporary science;
- planning of inspiring and engaging activities and experiences;
- developing techniques for interacting with diverse audiences.
Who can apply?
This international PhD Academy is offered to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics); Social sciences; Humanities; Architecture; Art and Design. The course is addressed to students who have already completed at least one year of their PhD, post-docs, junior researchers and junior professionals..
Open to candidates from all the VIU Member Institutions; applications from excellent candidates from non-member institutions will be also considered and evaluated.
Fees & grant support
Full fee waiver scholarships are available for students from VIU member institutions. In addition, grant support is available to support partially or fully the costs of international travel. Accommodation is provided free of charge.
The participation fee for students of non-member institutions is 1100.00 EUR (incl. VAT). The fee is inclusive of tuition, course materials, accommodation, lunches, social events, and taxes.
Students from non-member institutions are not eligible for VIU grant support.
VIU Alumni are eligible for a reduced fee.
Applicants must submit the (1) application form, (2) a letter of motivation – which should include a short bio and a brief description of the candidate’s research project, (3) a curriculum vitae, and (4) a photo.
For further information please download the brochure and the program or write to: phdacademy@univiu.org
