Operating Fund for the PhD Program and How to Use It The University annually determines the amount of a budget to be used for research activities in Italy and abroad and for the proper functioning of the PhD Programs. Eligible expense categories include: - PhD student mobility - Reimbursement of expenses for external members of examination committees - Conferences and seminars - Inventory materials necessary for PhD activities - Consumable materials - Postal expenses and consumables for conducting competitions - Informational and promotional materials and/or services PhD candidates may request their Coordinator to use this fund for documented research and mobility needs until the final exam discussion. The operating fund is held at the Department associated with the PhD Program; the Department is responsible for reporting the expenses every 12 months.