PhD Scholarship Opportunity in Italian

The candidate will develop research broadly related to a project on the dramatic representation of Romani people, Ottomans, and “Moors” in Renaissance Italian comedies and their Western European translations, funded by Research Ireland Pathway programme. They will be supervised by the PI and co-PI of the project, Dr Matteo Leta and Dr Serena Laiena. Successful candidates should demonstrate an interest in at least one of the following areas: Italian Renaissance Theatre, Early Modern History of Minorities, Transnational Approaches to Italian Theatre, Mediterranean Studies, Cultural History, Premodern Critical Race Studies, as well as proficiency in Italian and English. Ability to work in another Romance language will also be considered.

The Scholarship lasts for four years and comprises an annual stipend of €25,000, a contribution to fees, including non-EU fees, of €5,750 per annum, and an allowance of €4,500 for research and travel costs. The successful candidate is expected to participate in professional development activities, including some teaching activities.

The closing date for applications is 4 August 2025, 5 pm GMT. The position will remain open until filled.

Candidates who wish to apply for the scholarship must have completed an MA Degree (or Laurea Magistrale or an equivalent degree) by 1 September 2025 or before taking up this position.

In order to be considered for the post, applicants must send the following documents written in English to Dr Matteo Leta and Dr Serena Laiena at: (opens in a new window)leta.matteo.93@gmail.com and (opens in a new window)serena.laiena@ucd.ie by 4 August 2025, 5 pm GMT:

• a short expression of interest (500 words) stating the candidate’s background and reasons for applying
• a CV
• a project proposal (1000 words plus indicative bibliography)

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to send a writing sample (either in English or in Italian) and two reference letters (either in English or in Italian), and to participate in an interview.

If you have any questions regarding the scholarship and the application process, please contact (opens in a new window)leta.matteo.93@gmail.com and (opens in a new window)serena.laiena@ucd.ie.