A PhD position is available at Gran Sasso Science Institute (GSSI), L’Aquila, Italy, in the Distributed Graph Algorithms group of Prof. Alkida Balliu.
The position is funded by the FIS Project (Computer Science) 2024-03606 “A Robust Theory of Distributed Computation”.
The ideal candidate has an excellent academic qualification in computer science or a related
discipline. We expressly encourage talented students from mathematics—especially pure
mathematics—to apply if they have an interest in algorithmic questions. It is not required any
background in distributed or parallel algorithms.
REQUIREMENTS
Applications are open to candidates in possession of one of the following degrees:
- “Laurea Magistrale” or “Laurea Specialistica” or a four or five years degree.
- A foreign University degree (minimum legal duration of the University course: four years). The eligibility of foreign degrees is assessed by the Selection Committee.
Applicants obtaining their degree by no later than October 31, 2026 may apply (they will however have to send a copy of their degree certificate at phd.secretariat@gssi.it within November 20, 2026 (for Italian degrees a “self declaration” can also be accepted)).
TIMELINE
Deadline: Applications are open until May 4, 2026, 3:00 p.m. (Italian time zone).
Shortlist: The shortlist of the eligible candidates will be published within May 8.
Interviews: Interviews will take place remotely on May 11 (the list of the candidates admitted to the interview will be published on the GSSI website).
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants must fill out the online application form at https://applications.gssi.it, where it is possible to find all the necessary information for the submission, and attach the required documents.
In the application form there is a field where applicants may indicate emails addresses of persons that could provide a reference letter; once you apply, the referees will automatically get notified and be asked to send a reference letter within May 6.
ACTIVITIES AND DURATION
The Ph.D. Programme lasts four years. Nevertheless, it is possible to be awarded the Ph.D. degree after the completion of the third year.
The Academic Year will start on November 1st 2026.
ABOUT L’AQUILA
L’Aquila is a beautiful historic city surrounded by the majestic Apennine Mountains. It is the capital of the Abruzzo region and the 2026 Italian Capital of Culture.
L’Aquila is a very affordable Italian city (a person can live on a budget of roughly €600–€800 per month).
SCHOLARSHIPS AND BENEFITS
GSSI awards scholarships until the dissertation defense and for a maximum of four years.
The net monthly scholarship amounts to more than € 1.600,00, divided as follows.
Salary: The monthly net amount of the scholarship is roughly € 1.200,00 (yearly gross amount is € 16.243,00). An additional 50% on a monthly basis may be awarded for research periods abroad if approved by the GSSI.
Accommodation: All Ph.D. students normally benefit from free accommodation at the guest house during the first year; starting from the second year, all Ph.D. students are provided with a financial substitute of € 305,00 net/month.
Luncheons: All Ph.D. students will have free luncheon vouchers (1 per day, working days, except school closures, abroad visits, conference attendances, and other situations contemplated by the GSSI rules).
No Tuition Fees: All Ph.D. students will have tuition fees waived.
Insurance: All Ph.D. students will be covered by insurance against any accident and/or injury that may occur while carrying out their Ph.D. activities.
Laptop: All Ph.D. students are entitled to a contribution of up to € 1.200,00 (net) for the purchase of a laptop for study and research purposes. The contribution will be paid upon the presentation of the fiscal receipt headed to the applicant.