During the PhD program, doctoral candidates are required to spend a study period (ranging from 6 to 12 months) at renowned research institutions abroad (see also the mobility information sheet). In the case of joint supervision (cotutelle), the period spent abroad may be extended up to 18 months. This phase of international mobility is an essential component of the training program, allowing students to enrich their academic and research knowledge and skills.

During this period, they have the opportunity to collaborate with international experts in the field of cognitive science or related areas. This experience enables doctoral candidates to explore new research methodologies and scientific approaches. Furthermore, it helps strengthen collaborations between research institutions in different countries and promotes the exchange of knowledge and ideas on an international level.

The consolidation of these collaborations and the promotion of knowledge exchange are among the main objectives of the program. The PhD program is strongly committed to building international research networks and to collaborating with centers of excellence around the world (see also the dedicated webpage on partners).

Thanks to active cotutelle agreements with both European (University of Tübingen, Germany) and non-European universities (Burapha University, Thailand), PhD candidates have the opportunity to carry out a significant part of their research in prestigious international academic environments and to obtain a double degree—one for each of the two doctoral programs involved in the cotutelle agreement. For example, in addition to the title awarded by this PhD Program, candidates also receive a degree in Experimental Medicine in the case of the cotutelle with the University of Tübingen, and in Research and Statistics in Cognitive Science for the cotutelle with Burapha University.

The Doctor Europaeus label is also a well-established practice within the program.

These initiatives reflect the program’s strong commitment to promoting internationalization, international cooperation, and networking among faculty and students, contributing to a dynamic and cutting-edge research environment. In addition, the PhD board includes numerous researchers affiliated with international institutions who contribute to the training and supervision of doctoral candidates. This international presence fosters diversity of perspectives and encourages interdisciplinary research.

In summary, the international nature of the program is demonstrated by:

• The requirement for second-year PhD students to spend a study period of at least 6 months abroad, preferably in one continuous stay;

• The signing of thesis cotutelle agreements;

• Numerous collaborations with foreign research centers;

• The involvement of international thesis supervisors;

• The presence of international faculty members on the PhD board;

• Lectures, seminars, and meetings conducted in a foreign language;

• The presence of international PhD students in the School;

• The designation of English as the second official language of the program: all courses are taught in English;

• The publication of the call for applications also in English;

• The involvement of international external reviewers for the evaluation of PhD theses;

• The participation of international members in the committee for awarding the PhD degree.

PhD candidates can access international mobility opportunities available to university students at:

https://international.unitn.it/outgoing/programmes

The Delegate for Internationalization of the PhD Program Coordinator is Prof. Irene Sperandio.

The Delegate for Internationalization of the Department Director is Prof. Martina Cvajner.