How do we prepare for the future when the certainties of the past are no longer enough? As the climate changes, territories transform, and vulnerabilities emerge in new forms, science becomes both compass and map. It is where observation, modelling, and anticipation take place. It is where hidden connections are sought—between natural phenomena, infrastructures, and communities. In this scenario, the role of scientific research is not merely to explain, but to guide society toward sustainable, evidence-based, and complexity-aware solutions.
It is in this context that the new call for the PhD Program in Security, Risk and Vulnerability at the University of Genoa opens, launching its 41st cycle (2025). This multidisciplinary program focuses on complex systems and the systemic approach to risk management. Among the thematic curricula offered, the “Risk, Climate Change and Sustainable Development” curriculum—once again available this year—is promoted in collaboration with CIMA Research Foundation.
Applications can be submitted until 12:00 PM (CEST) on July 9, 2025. All official information and documentation are available on the University website and the dedicated page.
A PhD to understand the complexities of the present
The Security, Risk and Vulnerability PhD program was established to address—with a systemic approach—the urgent threats facing contemporary societies: extreme climate events, natural hazards, territorial vulnerabilities, technological and environmental transitions, and socio-political instabilities. In this context, security is understood as a multidimensional space that encompasses not only disaster prevention and management, but also the sustainability of proposed solutions.
The structure of the program reflects this vision: it is organized into thematic curricula covering fields such as cybersecurity, critical infrastructures, emergency engineering, and the geopolitics of crises. Within this framework lies the “Risk, Climate Change and Sustainable Development” curriculum, which represents a long-standing scientific synergy between the University of Genoa and CIMA Research Foundation.
The “Risk, Climate Change and Sustainable Development” curriculum
The curriculum focused on risk, climate change, and sustainable development scientifically explores the dynamic interactions between climate, territory, and society. At its core are the risks associated with climate change—both ongoing and future—and the need to address them through sustainability and adaptation strategies.
Through advanced, interdisciplinary training, the curriculum allows candidates to investigate topics such as:
- the analysis of threats and vulnerabilities driven by climate change and other natural or anthropogenic factors;
- the identification and assessment of risk at local, national, and global scales;
- the development of sustainable risk management approaches, including the use of innovative technologies;
- the design of climate change adaptation strategies and their impacts on ecosystems, infrastructures, and communities;
- the integration of environmental dimensions into decision-making processes and public policy.
Throughout, particular attention is given to the integrated dimension of risk—as a systemic phenomenon involving natural, technological, social, and institutional components.
Training that combines theory and research practice
Thanks to the collaboration with CIMA Research Foundation, the curriculum offers strong integration between theoretical research, field applications, and operational impact.
PhD candidates have the opportunity to actively participate in national and international research projects, data analysis and modelling activities, emergency management support for authorities, and educational and outreach initiatives. The Foundation provides a highly interdisciplinary environment, where experts from diverse backgrounds work together daily to develop concrete, evidence-based solutions.
This is a unique opportunity to train not only as researchers, but as professionals capable of working at the intersection of science, society, and institutions—in a world that demands new skills to address complex risks.
Practical information
The 2025 call for applications to the PhD Program in Security, Risk and Vulnerability is available on the official website of the University of Genoa. Applications must be submitted exclusively online by 12:00 PM (CEST) on July 9, 2025.
To read the full call and apply, visit the dedicated page.
Discover more details about the “Risk, Climate Change and Sustainable Development” curriculum.
Explore the topics of the scholarships available through the call (including 6 funded by CIMA Research Foundation) under this curriculum.