(5A) Detection of space debris by networks of distributed radars (CUP -)
Funding institution: Consorzio nazionale interuniversitario per le telecomunicazioni - CNIT
Doctoral site: Laboratorio Nazionale di Reti e Tecnologie Fotoniche con sede a PISA - Consorzio nazionale interuniversitario per le telecomunicazioni
Contact: Paolo Ghelfi [paolo.ghelfi@cnit.it]
Funds: Institutional Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
As satellites are filling up the lowest orbits with mega constellation, the problem of detecting and tracking small debris is becoming urgent. This project proposes to study a solution based on a network of distributed radars at high frequency, significantly improving the resolution of the detection to about 1cm by exploiting the coherent observation from multiple viewpoints.
(5B) Design and prototype characterization of innovative high energy particle detectors for space application (CUP -)
Funding institution: National Institute for Nuclear Physics - INFN
Doctoral site: National Institute for Nuclear Physics – INFN, Bari or Rome section
Contact: Fabio Gargano [fabio.gargano@ba.infn.it]; Roberta Sparvoli [roberta.sparvoli@roma2.infn.it]
Funds: Institutional Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
The design and characterization of innovative high-energy particle detectors for space applications is a critical area of research that seeks to develop advanced technology capable of detecting and measuring high-energy particles in space. These detectors are essential for studying the space environment, such as the radiation levels in space, the properties of cosmic rays, and the behavior of high-energy particles. The design process involves the development of advanced prototypes, which are then characterized using a range of techniques to evaluate their performance and suitability for use in space missions. Ultimately, this research aims to improve our understanding of the space environment and support the development of space-based technologies.
(5C) Development of 3D-Integrated Trench-Isolated LGADs For Detecting Low-Energy X-Rays in Space Experiments (CUP C63C23001090006)
Funding institution: Fondazione Bruno Kessler - FBK
Doctoral site: Fondazione Bruno Kessler - FBK
Contact: Ashish Bisht [abisht@fbk.eu]
Funds: Project Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
Low Gain Avalanche Diodes (LGADs) are silicon detectors that utilize the impact ionization process to achieve gain values of ~10. While LGADs have been optimized for high precision timing (σt∼30 ps) in charged particle detection, standard gain-layer segmentation typically limits the fill factor due to significant “dead area” between pixels.
Trench-Isolated Low Gain Avalanche Diodes (TI-LGADs) is an alternative technological approach to achieve fine segmentation in LGADs. Developed by FBK, this technology replaces traditional junction termination extension (JTE) and p-stop with sub-micron trenches (<1 μm) filled with dielectric material (SiO2). This innovation reduces the nominal inter-pixel no-gain width from the standard 30–80 μm to less than 3 μm, enabling a fill-factor of nearly 80% for a 50 μm pitch sensor. Furthermore, TI-LGAD sensors manufactured with a double-sided process hold promise for soft X-ray detection. They can provide a reasonably high fill factor, small pixels down to 25 μm, and simultaneously offer the possibility to integrate an entrance window on the sensor backside.
Next-generation X-ray telescopes require significantly higher quantum efficiency across the soft X-ray band to observe faint celestial objects—capabilities that current CCD or SDD-based detectors struggle to meet. By coupling TI-LGADs with the custom XPOL-III readout ASIC, this integrated system can achieve microsecond timing resolution and extend sensitivity to low-energy photons (∼1 keV). The result is a comprehensive 5D resolution solution for the next generation of space-based ionizing radiation detection.
The successful candidate will be involved in the development and characterization of the TI-LGADs with an optimized entrance window on the sensor backside. The main activities of this position will be focused on:
· the characterization of sensors using infrared/visible, x-ray and gamma radiation, as well as charged particles; these tasks will be mainly performed in the laboratories of FBK;
· development and optimization of new characterization setups.
Intellectual Property Notice for PhD candidates under the UniTrento-FBK Agreement
Please read the following information carefully before submitting your application.
Intellectual Property of Research Results. The intellectual property rights of research results generated by PhD students under scholarships within the UniTrento-FBK Agreement shall belong to FBK.
Transfer of Intellectual Property Rights. FBK will establish agreements with PhD students regarding the transfer of intellectual property rights related to their research results.
Collaboration with UniTrento. If UniTrento academic staff contribute to research results obtained through PhD scholarships funded by FBK, the determination of IP shares will be defined through separate written agreements based on each party’s contribution. PhD students are required to collaborate with UniTrento in all necessary activities related to the joint management of IP.
(5D) Integration and calibration of the hyperspectral stereo camera (SHY-4D) for a lunar rover (CUP C53C24001850005)
Funding institution: Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - INAF
Doctoral site: Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - INAF, Osservatorio Astronomico di Padova
Contact: Gabriele Cremonese [gabriele.cremonese@inaf.it]
Funds: Project Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
SHY-4D is a hyperspectral stereo camera that we are realizing for a lunar rover within the strategic project INAF-CNR HARLOCK. The instrument consists of two hyperspectral cameras, working in the visible spectral range. The two cameras will rotate by 360 degrees collecting stereo pairs for each spectral band; in so doing we can generate hyperspectral Digital Terrain Model. It means we provide for each pixel of the 3D image the spectral information. The camera is a new design based on lenses plus a linear variable filter deposited on top the detector. The PhD student will support the final design of the camera, the integration of the optical elements and the detector, and the calibration on the optical bench.
(5E) Multimessenger observation of UHE neutral messengers (CUP -)
Funding institution: University of Palermo - UNIPA
Doctoral site: University of Palermo - UNIPA
Contact: Giovanni Marsella [giovanni.marsella@unipa.it]
Funds: Institutional Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
We propose to investigate the possibilities of searches for ultra-high energy photons and neutrinos as counterparts o f transient astronomical events (merging of compact objects, explosions of massive stars, jets from supermassive black holes hosted by active galaxies).
The development of synergies between ground-based and space-based observatories will have a key role in this scenario.
Satellites and large field of view ground-based observatories are important in order to provide external triggers to telescopes for a complete multimessenger follow-up.
This work aims at investigating this research area with both simulations and real data and will be carried out within one or more experiments currently operating, like the Pierre Auger Observatory, Km3NET, the Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory, FERMI, Dampe,…
(5F) Development of Bent-Crystal Optics for X-ray Spectrometry and Imaging (CUP -)
Funding institution: University of Ferrara - UNIFE
Doctoral site: University of Ferrara - UNIFE
Contact: Andrea Mazzolari [mazzolari@fe.infn.it]
Funds: Institutional Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
The PhD project is devoted to the development of advanced optics for X-ray sources, with the aim of improving the precision and efficiency of spectroscopic, diffraction, and imaging measurements through the investigation of innovative materials. The research will focus on X-ray diffraction in bent crystals and its applications to high-resolution spectrometry and imaging, as well as on the development and testing of hardware for future X-ray missions. The programme includes modelling, simulation, and experimental characterization activities, to be carried out both in the laboratory and at synchrotron light facilities. A further objective is the development of Laue lenses for the focusing of X-ray and gamma-ray radiation, with potential applications in future satellite-based observations and advanced scientific instrumentation.
(5G) Experimental Astroparticle Physics for Space Applications (CUP E53D23002110006)
Funding institution: University of Trento- UNITN
Doctoral site: University of Trento- UNITN
Contact: Roberto Iuppa [roberto.iuppa@unitn.it]
Funds: Institutional Funds / Project Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
The PhD project will focus on the development and scientific exploitation of next-generation particle detectors for space missions, with applications to cosmic-ray physics, space weather, transient phenomena, and direct measurements of charged particles in low-Earth orbit.
The research activity is expected to involve a combination of:
- detector development and characterization;
- Monte Carlo simulation of particle detectors;
- analysis of data from space-borne instruments;
- development of machine-learning methods for event reconstruction and classification;
- participation in large international collaborations in astroparticle physics and space science.
The position is particularly suitable for candidates with a solid background in experimental physics, detector instrumentation, electronics, scientific computing, or closely related disciplines.
Candidates primarily interested in theoretical physics, generic artificial intelligence applications, pure data science, or software engineering without a strong motivation towards experimental science and instrumentation may find the project misaligned with their interests.
Prior experience with one or more of the following topics will be considered advantageous:
- particle or radiation detectors;
- Monte Carlo methods;
- scientific programming (Python/C++);
- machine learning for scientific applications;
- space instrumentation;
- high-energy, nuclear, astroparticle, or space physics.
The project will involve interaction with international collaborations and may require occasional participation in detector tests, integration activities, beam campaigns, and collaboration meetings.
(5H) A multidisciplinary approach to X-ray and gamma-ray spectroscopy of planetary surfaces: simulations, laboratory tests, Artificial Intelligence (CUP F63C26000380001)
Funding institution: Italian Space Agency - ASI
Doctoral site: National Institute for Astrophysics - INAF, Trieste Astronomical Observatory
Contact: Fabrizio Fiore [fabrizio.fiore@inaf.it]
Funds: Institutional Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
X-ray and gamma-ray spectroscopy enable detailed assessment of planetary surface composition, essential for understanding geological evolution and prospecting resources. This is particularly relevant for the Moon, where the terrain shows evidence of valuable materials. In-situ resources include water, oxygen, rocket propellants (hydrogen and oxygen), construction materials, and metals such as iron, titanium, and aluminum. Other high-value resources on Earth include KREEP components (Rare Earth Elements [REE], potassium [K], phosphorus [P]) and Platinum-Group Elements (PGEs: platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, osmium). Current data on their abundances remain insufficient for both scientific and economic needs. Knowledge derives from returned samples (Apollo and Chang’e missions) and remote sensing (e.g., Kaguya, Lunar prospector). Samples are limited to small, specific sites, while remote observations cover broader areas but at low resolution (~tens of kilometers). To bridge this gap and improve mapping of metals and REEs on the lunar surface, intermediate-scale investigations are needed. X-ray and gamma-ray spectroscopy instruments on AI-equipped rovers can enable autonomous soil exploration. A hierarchical in-situ strategy combines gamma-ray spectroscopy for initial geochemical surveys and proxy mapping, followed by close-range X-ray analysis of promising detections. Developing a single broadband instrument (≈1 keV to 5 MeV) is strategic. It would support gamma-ray spectroscopy of nuclear lines (K, Th, U) at moderate resolution (~6% at 600 keV) and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy of atomic lines (Si to Ti, Fe, Ni, REEs, PGEs) at 150–200 eV resolution. An AI-enabled rover with this instrument could correlate detections and autonomously guide exploration. This approach advances knowledge and technologies for future lunar and planetary missions. It offers a highly innovative PhD opportunity. The spectrometer leverages prior in-orbit heritage (TRL 9) but requires redesign for lunar conditions (starting at TRL 5). Based on existing experience, this gap can be closed in a few years, potentially enabling a lunar demonstration during the PhD timeframe. The student would play a central role by:
- Defining the lunar surface environment
- Designing and testing the spectrometer’s mechanical structure against environmental challenges
- Calibrating detection for lunar targets via simulations and lab tests
- Adapting spectrometer outputs for AI integration
The PhD requires familiarity with diverse fields and contents: lunar geology, X-ray and gamma-rayspectroscopy, mechanical design for lunar conditions, and AI interfaces. Methodologically, the student will gain skills in:
- Lunar terrain geology
- Mechanical design for extreme conditions (radiation, thermal cycling, regolith), including industry collaboration for manufacturing and testing at advanced space facilities
- High-energy spectroscopy through simulation, data analysis, and X-ray lab testing on lunar-analog samples
- AI application development
The PhD student will be required to face an intrinsically interdisciplinary approach: this will enable the student to explore different fields, whilst maintaining a strong focus on the development of knowledge and technology related to the lunar environment and planetary surfaces, which could potentially be applied in other mission contexts.
The student will join a synergistic team in an active space research environment, the Italian PRORIS HARLOCK project (High-resolution Autonomous Resource Lunar Observation & Characterization Kit), which develops science-driven instrumentation for lunar resources. Within this context, the PhD student will work with the PROGReX group at INAF – Osservatorio Astronomico di Trieste and its national and international partners; in addition to the team’s expertise, there will be the chance to attend specialised schools and conferences (the Space Resources Week in Luxembourg, ELS - European Lunar Symposium, SPIE - society for optics and photonics).
(5I) Ab Initio-Guided Design of Radiation-Tolerant High-Entropy Alloys for Space Technologies and ADvanced Nuclear Energy Systems in Space (A-GRADES) (CUP F63C26000380001)
Funding institution: Italian Space Agency - ASI
Doctoral site: European Centre for Theoretical Studies in Nuclear Physics and Related Areas (ECT), Fondazione Bruno Kessler - FBK
Contact: Simone Taioli [taioli@ectstar.eu]; Giovanni Garberoglio [garberoglio@ectstar.eu]; Maurizio Dapor [dapor@ectstar.eu]
Funds: Institutional Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
Future lunar, Martian, and deep-space missions will require advanced materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions over long-duration missions, including intense radiation, large temperature variations, and prolonged exposure to harsh environments. This PhD project aims to design and discover next-generation High-Entropy Alloys (HEAs) with enhanced radiation resistance and thermal stability for space technologies, contributing to the understanding and development of novel materials for extreme environments.
The research will combine state-of-the-art computational materials science, artificial intelligence, and multiscale modelling to investigate how cosmic rays, solar particles, and radiation environments affect the structural and electronic properties of complex materials. Using first-principles simulations, machine learning techniques, and advanced Monte Carlo methods, the student will develop predictive tools for designing materials for satellites, radiation detectors, and future space nuclear energy systems.
The project offers a unique interdisciplinary environment at the interface of condensed matter physics, materials science, nuclear physics, and space technology, with international collaborations and research stays at leading European institutions. The outcomes will contribute to the development of reliable, radiation-tolerant materials for the next generation of space exploration missions.
The ideal candidate should have a strong background in condensed matter physics, materials science, or a closely related field, with solid knowledge of quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics. Experience in computational physics and programming (e.g. Python, Fortran, C/C++ or similar), as well as familiarity with electronic structure methods such as density functional theory or many-body techniques, is highly desirable. The candidate should demonstrate strong analytical skills, motivation to work at the interface of materials modelling and nuclear theory, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international research environment.
Positions reserved for candidates of Kenyan nationality
(5KA) Design, Fabrication and Characterization of Plasmonic Antennas for Infrared Detection in Space Applications (CUP F63C26000230005)
Funding institution: Italian Space Agency - ASI
Doctoral site: Fondazione Bruno Kessler - FBK
Contact: Giancarlo Pepponi [pepponi@fbk.eu]; Paolo Rocca [paolo.rocca@unitn.it]
Funds: Institutional Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
Infrared sensing plays a crucial role in modern space instrumentation, enabling the detection of weak thermal and spectroscopic signals in scientific payloads for astrophysics, planetary exploration, and satellite-based earth observation. Space missions such as ISO, Herschel, Webb, and SPHEREx demonstrate the continued strategic importance of infrared technologies across a broad range of wavelengths and scientific goals. In this context, plasmonic nanoantennas offer a promising route to enhance light–matter interaction at subwavelength scale and to support the development of compact, high-performance detectors. This PhD project proposes the design, simulation, fabrication, and characterization of plasmonic antennas for infrared detection in space applications. The activity will include numerical electromagnetic modelling, cleanroom fabrication, and optical/electrical characterization aimed at optimizing resonance control, absorption efficiency, and coupling to detector elements. The project is expected to provide new design strategies for antenna-assisted infrared detectors compatible with the constraints of future spaceborne instruments, including miniaturization, integration, and performance enhancement.
(5KB) Artificial intelligence for the analysis of space remote sensing data (CUP F63C26000230005)
Funding institution: Italian Space Agency - ASI
Doctoral site: University of Trento
Contact: Lorenzo Bruzzone [lorenzo.bruzzone@unitn.it]
Funds: Institutional Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
The research activities are focused on the development of methods based on artificial intelligence and/or deep learning for the analysis of data acquired by sensors on board satellite systems. This will include both radar data (e.g. Synthetic Aperture Radar images, radar sounder data) and images acquired by optical sensors (multispectral and hyperspectral images). Specific focus will be given to the methodologies for the integration of multisensor data for the classification and semantic segmentation of images as well as for change detection and the analysis of image time series. The methodologies will be applied to real scenarios either in the context of Earth observation or planetary exploration.
Research will be developed at the Remote Sensing Laboratory, Department of Information Engineering and Computer Science, University of Trento (https://rslab.disi.unitn.it/)