Earth Sciences

Doctoral programme (PhD)
A.Y. 2025/2026
Study area
Science and Technology
PhD Coordinator
The doctoral programme in Earth Sciences aims to train young researchers so that they are able to autonomously investigate a broad range of geoscience topics. The mission is to form high profile geologists with scientific-technical-experimental training in the study, modelling and management of georesources who are able to solve problems effectively. Based on past experience, the programme will focus on immediately marketable hard & soft skills and meet the need for post-graduate education with up-to-date, innovative know-how. In particular, it will provide advanced specialist training
1. in basic, applied and theoretical research on problems relating to the structure, composition, evolution and dynamics of the Earth;
2. in the characterisation and modelling of the Earth System;
3. in basic and applied research on land use, natural hazards, energy and water resources, geomaterials, mineral prospecting and enhancement of cultural heritage.
The geological perspective of the overall functioning of the Earth System includes research centred on the processes at work on the surface and inside the Earth, on their impact on ecosystems and human activities and, conversely, the short and long-term consequences of human activity on the environment. The complex interactions between geosphere, biosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere are stored in the geological record, which can be decoded to:
a) reconstruct the development and evolution of our planet, combining experimental observations and models;
b) Define natural resources (oil, gas, mineral raw materials, water), their use and sustainable exploitation;
c) Evaluate geological hazards (e.g., earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, landslides);
d) Devise works of geological engineering and infrastructures;
e) Implement environmental reclamation technologies;
f) Develop exploitation of raw materials for industrial applications;
g) Preserve and make the most of our cultural geo-paleontological heritage;
h) Evaluate forensic applications.
The EARTH SYSTEM: PROCESSES AND MODELLING curriculum aims to develop scientific-technical skills for understanding, quantifying and modelling the current Earth System and the geological record, characterised by complex interactions between Geosphere, Biosphere, Atmosphere and Hydrosphere.
The GEORESOURCES curriculum aims to develop innovative skills to address the global challenges deriving from the growing need for Georesources. Research activities will focus on a wide spectrum of geological skills regarding the identification and exploitation of energy, mineral and water resources while preserving the landscape. The aim is to train high-profile geologists with scientific-technical-experimental training for research, modelling and management of georesources and for studying and enhancing the landscape and cultural heritage.
The programme is organised to meet teaching and research requirements related to the broad spectrum of geosciences. The lines of research developed during the doctoral programme in Earth Sciences are highly topical with extensive international significance, as witnessed by close cooperation with leading international research institutions. Special attention is dedicated to training researchers to tackle complex research topics in an independent and innovative manner. Training of doctoral students includes short courses and workshops, work experience in Italian and international institutions/laboratories, collaboration with industry, participation in Italian and international conferences and workshops, and other activities focused on overall training.
1. in basic, applied and theoretical research on problems relating to the structure, composition, evolution and dynamics of the Earth;
2. in the characterisation and modelling of the Earth System;
3. in basic and applied research on land use, natural hazards, energy and water resources, geomaterials, mineral prospecting and enhancement of cultural heritage.
The geological perspective of the overall functioning of the Earth System includes research centred on the processes at work on the surface and inside the Earth, on their impact on ecosystems and human activities and, conversely, the short and long-term consequences of human activity on the environment. The complex interactions between geosphere, biosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere are stored in the geological record, which can be decoded to:
a) reconstruct the development and evolution of our planet, combining experimental observations and models;
b) Define natural resources (oil, gas, mineral raw materials, water), their use and sustainable exploitation;
c) Evaluate geological hazards (e.g., earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, landslides);
d) Devise works of geological engineering and infrastructures;
e) Implement environmental reclamation technologies;
f) Develop exploitation of raw materials for industrial applications;
g) Preserve and make the most of our cultural geo-paleontological heritage;
h) Evaluate forensic applications.
The EARTH SYSTEM: PROCESSES AND MODELLING curriculum aims to develop scientific-technical skills for understanding, quantifying and modelling the current Earth System and the geological record, characterised by complex interactions between Geosphere, Biosphere, Atmosphere and Hydrosphere.
The GEORESOURCES curriculum aims to develop innovative skills to address the global challenges deriving from the growing need for Georesources. Research activities will focus on a wide spectrum of geological skills regarding the identification and exploitation of energy, mineral and water resources while preserving the landscape. The aim is to train high-profile geologists with scientific-technical-experimental training for research, modelling and management of georesources and for studying and enhancing the landscape and cultural heritage.
The programme is organised to meet teaching and research requirements related to the broad spectrum of geosciences. The lines of research developed during the doctoral programme in Earth Sciences are highly topical with extensive international significance, as witnessed by close cooperation with leading international research institutions. Special attention is dedicated to training researchers to tackle complex research topics in an independent and innovative manner. Training of doctoral students includes short courses and workshops, work experience in Italian and international institutions/laboratories, collaboration with industry, participation in Italian and international conferences and workshops, and other activities focused on overall training.
Classi di laurea magistrale - Classes of master's degree:
LM-11 Scienze per la conservazione dei beni culturali
LM-17 Fisica,
LM-18 Informatica,
LM-22 Ingegneria chimica,
LM-23 Ingegneria civile,
LM-27 Ingegneria delle telecomunicazioni,
LM-29 Ingegneria elettronica,
LM-30 Ingegneria energetica e nucleare,
LM-32 Ingegneria informatica,
LM-34 Ingegneria navale,
LM-35 Ingegneria per l?ambiente e il territorio,
LM-40 Matematica,
LM-48 Pianificazione territoriale urbanistica e ambientale,
LM-53 Scienza e ingegneria dei materiali,
LM-54 Scienze chimiche,
LM-58 Scienze dell?universo,
LM-60 Scienze della natura,
LM-69 Scienze e tecnologie agrarie,
LM-71 Scienze e tecnologie della chimica industriale,
LM-72 Scienze e tecnologie della navigazione,
LM-73 Scienze e tecnologie forestali ed ambientali,
LM-74 Scienze e tecnologie geologiche,
LM-75 Scienze e tecnologie per l?ambiente e il territorio,
LM-79 Scienze geofisiche,
LM-82 Scienze statistiche.
LM-11 Scienze per la conservazione dei beni culturali
LM-17 Fisica,
LM-18 Informatica,
LM-22 Ingegneria chimica,
LM-23 Ingegneria civile,
LM-27 Ingegneria delle telecomunicazioni,
LM-29 Ingegneria elettronica,
LM-30 Ingegneria energetica e nucleare,
LM-32 Ingegneria informatica,
LM-34 Ingegneria navale,
LM-35 Ingegneria per l?ambiente e il territorio,
LM-40 Matematica,
LM-48 Pianificazione territoriale urbanistica e ambientale,
LM-53 Scienza e ingegneria dei materiali,
LM-54 Scienze chimiche,
LM-58 Scienze dell?universo,
LM-60 Scienze della natura,
LM-69 Scienze e tecnologie agrarie,
LM-71 Scienze e tecnologie della chimica industriale,
LM-72 Scienze e tecnologie della navigazione,
LM-73 Scienze e tecnologie forestali ed ambientali,
LM-74 Scienze e tecnologie geologiche,
LM-75 Scienze e tecnologie per l?ambiente e il territorio,
LM-79 Scienze geofisiche,
LM-82 Scienze statistiche.
Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra 'Ardito Desio' - Via L. Mangiagalli, 34 - 20133 Milano
- Degree course coordinator: prof. Muttoni Giovanni
[email protected] - Main offices
Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra 'Ardito Desio' - Via L. Mangiagalli, 34 - 20133 Milano - Degree course website
https://sites.unimi.it/phdearthsciences/
https://sites.unimi.it/phdearthsciences/
Title | Professor(s) |
---|---|
Deciphering the litho-structural continuity and Permian evolution of Adria’s deep crust across the Alps
Requirements: We are looking for candidates with knowledge of the structural geology of crystalline basements and microstructural analysis of tectonites. Some skills in minerochemical and geochemical investigations are also a plus. A willingness for fieldwork and strong collaboration skills with multidisciplinary teams are essential. Familiarity with GIS environments is also appreciated. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
From shallow level granites to eruptions: a journey into the lifetime of magma reservoirs
Requirements: Petrology of magmatic systems. Expertise with at least one of the following analytical techniques: XRF, EMPA, ICP-MS Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Digital tools and applications for monitoring, mapping, conservation and promotion of the geomorphological heritage in sensitive environments
Requirements: - Knowledge of processes and landforms featuring different morphogenetic and morphoclimatic environments and on related monitoring technologies - Advanced skills in Geographical Information Systems - Preferable skills in photogrammetric data acquisition and elaboration Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of Innovative Energy Geostructures
Requirements: We seek candidates with a solid background in engineering geology or geotechnical engineering. Aptitude for coding and geotechnical laboratory work is highly valued, though prior experience is not required. Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Modelling of electromagnetic effects in galvanic induced polarization data
Requirements: We are looking for a candidate with large expertise in EM modelling, and specifically in finite-element 3D computations. Knowledge of machine learning approaches is also beneficial. Proficiency in FORTRAN and Python programming languages is required Curriculum: Georesources |
G. Fiandaca
|
Tectono-metamorphic evolution and geochronology of Variscan remnants recorded in the Tambo and Suretta nappes as a key to unravel the pre-Alpine and Alpine history of the Central Alps
Requirements: Robust experience in geological and structural mapping, in particular of crystalline basements. Good knowledge of structural and micro-structural analysis, mineral-chemical analysis. Availability to develop and apply geochemical and geochronological investigations. Familiarity with high mountain environments. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Mineralogical Insights into Astrobiology on Mars
Requirements: Motivated candidates with a strong background in geosciences or natural sciences, and interests in mineralogy, crystallography, and astrobiology. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Zeolite-fluid interactions in the early stages of subduction
Requirements: Background in Earth Sciences and in crystallography (more specifically: powder X-ray diffraction). Knowledge of spectroscopic and chemical analyses techniques, of common use in Earth Sciences. Experience in single-crystal X-ray diffraction appreciated. Curriculum: Georesources |
|
THE TACHRIFT PROJECT: Investigating Turbidites from Source to Seafloor
Requirements: basic knowledge in sedimentology Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Human impact on landscapes since Prehistory
Requirements: Basics in Earth Sciences, geomorphology and GIS Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Pre- and syn-orogenic evolution of Tethyan ophiolite units of the Alps
Requirements: At least two of the following skills: geological structural mapping; microstructural analysis; major and trace element analysis; isotope geochemistry; thermobarometrical estimates. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Hydrogen injection and chaotic mixing to boost aquifer bioremediation
Requirements: Knowledge of hydrogeology, geophysics, groundwater flow and reactive transport modelling, coding and scriptin; Italian, English and Spanish language. Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Mobility of molecular hydrogen in the Earth’s interior
Requirements: Prerequisites include a solid understanding of key petrological processes and basic knowledge of mineralogy and geochemistry. The ideal candidate should be open to combining experimental and theoretical approaches, including ab initio molecular dynamics. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Time and space constraints of the Carnian Pluvial Episode (~234–232 Ma) in the northwestern Tehyan margin
Requirements: We are looking for candidates with knowledge of stratigraphic geology, depositional environments, and paleogeography. Basic knowledge of paleomagnetism and familiarity with coding languages (e.g., Python, R) are welcome. Positive attitude toward fieldwork and lab work are fundamental, together with strong collaborating skills. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Advancing Mineralogical Approaches to the Study of Prehistoric Ceramics and Related Artifacts
Requirements: Basic knowledge of mineralogy, mineralogical analytical techniques, and their applications to cultural heritage. Curriculum: Georesources |
N. Marinoni17654
|
Extreme meteorological events in the Mediterranean: from the atmosphere to impacts at the ground
Requirements: MSc in Meteorology, Climate Science, Earth Sciences, Physics or related disciplines. Foundation in computer science and skill in scientific programming for data analysis are considered. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Stasis and changes in sedimentary successions: investigating the causes of rapid facies shifts in the stratigraphic record
Requirements: None Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Quantifying the contribution of glaciers and periglacial system in the mountain water cycle, with focus on groundwater recharge
Requirements: Strong foundations in the use of GIS and geomorphological mapping. Strong attitude for field monitoring activities and statistical analysis of environmental spatial-temporal data. Previous application of data-driven models and/or physically based hydrologic models is considered a plus. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
High Mountain Geomorphology: Deglaciation Processes and interaction with human impact
Requirements: Solid knowledge in geomorphology is required, with particular focus on morphodynamic processes in mountain environments. Familiarity with remote sensing techniques and with the analysis and interpretation of spatial data from various sources (e.g., satellite imagery, LiDAR, drone-based photogrammetry) is also necessary. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Cold Pool Turbulence at low latitudes
Requirements: MSc in Atmospheric Physics, Geophysics, Earth Sciences or Meteorology. Programming skills in R, Python and Fortran are welcome. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Precision and accuracy of Late Cretaceous integrated bio- magnetostratigraphy and implications for biogeographic distribution of planktonic foraminifera from low to high latitudes
Requirements: Background studies and researches in micropaleontology and stratigraphy are preferable but not mandatory Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
G. Muttoni
|
Heterogeneous systems and non-linear processes: characterization of heterogeneity and its effects on flow and transport processes
Requirements: For the work effectiveness, the candidate should possibly have a good knowledge of physics and mathematics and basic knowledge of a programming language. Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Innovative strategies for Critical Raw Material Act dissemination
Requirements: Candidates must have a solid general geological background and possess at least basic knowledge of geo-resources. Additional skills in outreach and management of communication products are welcome. Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Understanding the secular Earth’s mantle geochemical evolution
Requirements: We are looking for candidates with a strong foundation in petrology and with knowledge in trace element and isotope geochemistry. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Triassic ammonoids and pelagic bivalves as tool for high resolution Chronostratigraphy and Integrated stratigraphy
Requirements: Strong foundation in Paleontology, including Systematics, and Stratigraphy both in term of knowledge of concepts of Chronostratigraphy and Integrated stratigraphy. Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Cretaceous calcareous nannofossil biogeography: paleoceanographic and paleoclimatic implications
Requirements: knowledge in paleontology. Possibly also with some backgrounds in paleoecology, paleoceanography and statistics Curriculum: Earth System: Processes and Modeling |
|
Nannolithoforid evolution and calcification: implication for ocean chemistry and CO2 absorption.
Requirements: A strong background in micropaleontology, stratigraphy and paleoceanography. Further skills comprise statistics Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Reconstruction of thermal history and paleo-fluid circulations in the Geneva sedimentary basin to support geothermal exploration
Requirements: Basic knowledge in sedimentary petrology or in diagenesis and sedimentary geochemistry or in basin analysis. Interest for lab work. Curriculum: Georesources |
|
Using rice fields as Green-Blue infrastructure for groundwater management
Requirements: Good knowledge in hydrogeology of porous aquifers (numerical modelling and idrochemistry) Good ability in field activities for groundwater monitoring Ability to work in a team and good skills in communicating research results Curriculum: Georesources |
Enrolment
Call for applications
Please refer to the call for admission test dates and contents, and how to register.
Application for admission: please refer to the call
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