The PhD program in Mathematics and Applications at the University of Genoa provides high-level training and research opportunities in a wide range of mathematical disciplines, spanning both pure and applied mathematics. Named a Department of Excellence for 2023–2027 by the Ministry of Universities and Research, the Department of Mathematics of Genova provides a dynamic research environment with strong international collaborations.

The program encompasses a wide array of topics, including Algebra, Analysis, Geometry, Logic, Math Education, Mathematical Physics, Number Theory, Numerical Analysis, and Probability and Statistics, as well as applications in data analysis, finance, medicine, solar physics and space weather, cryptography, and other disciplines. Students receive rigorous theoretical training and engage in interdisciplinary research, benefiting from access to global academic networks, conferences, and exchange programs.
The program aims to prepare students for academic and professional careers by equipping them with a deep understanding of mathematics and its real-world applications.

The PhD program Mathematics and Applications is divided into two curricula: Mathematics and Applications and Mathematical method for data analysis, with the latter being characterized by a distinctly applied focus and numerous collaborations with Italian and international companies, as well as research institutions. 

Educational objectives

This PhD program aims to train researchers capable of competing and collaborating with the most advanced scientific communities in contemporary mathematics, as well as professionals with sophisticated skills who can leverage the power of mathematics in advanced industrial processes. The program achieves this through tailored training tools that address the unique nature of mathematical research, the active scientific collaborations within the Department of Mathematics (DIMA), and the modeling and computational needs of industrial organizations.

In particular:

• The research areas offered in the program will reflect the work conducted at DIMA, ensuring PhD candidates receive continuous scientific and educational support.
• The academic curriculum will be tailored to the needs of individual PhD candidates, providing a strong foundation in the cultural and theoretical aspects of their chosen research topic.
• PhD candidates will be integrated into cutting-edge networks in both pure and applied mathematics.
• Seminar activities will be enhanced through the participation of professors from Italian and international universities.
• Connections with the regional industrial sector will be strengthened through thesis projects focused on applied and industrial mathematics. These projects will ensure industry plays a central role, fostering collaborations that prepare candidates for immediate employment opportunities upon completion of their thesis.

Recent collaborations

Active or recent collaborations have been established with companies and institutions such as IRCCS 'Ospedale Policlinico San Martino', ERG, IIT, CNR-IMATI, and HoB S.r.l. 

Furthermore several students in the PhD program have had the opportunity to benefit from cotutelle agreements with international universities, recently including cotutelles with Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Université Cote d'Azur, Université Abdelmalek Essaadi, and the University of Ljubljana.

Career opportunities

A PhD in Mathematics opens up many career opportunities in both academic and non-academic fields. Graduates can work in universities or research institutions, often starting with postdoctoral positions, especially abroad, to further develop their skills and build a strong research profile. Many go on to achieve permanent positions in universities or research centers. Outside academia, graduates are highly sought after in industries such as technology, finance, and insurance, where they apply expertise gained during their PhD—such as advanced problem-solving, mathematical modeling, and data analysis—to tackle complex challenges. They can also work in consulting, IT, or education, such as teaching in high schools or developing educational resources.