The PhD Program in Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, with a duration of three years, belongs to the third level of university education and is aimed at training highly qualified researchers and professionals, with advanced expertise in the fields of solid and structural mechanics, structural engineering, and geotechnical engineering.
The program aims to develop the ability to conduct independent research, also in international contexts, by integrating theoretical, experimental, and computational approaches, and by promoting interaction with application domains in civil and industrial engineering, as well as other applied sciences.
The PhD Program refers to the scientific-disciplinary sectors of Solid and Structural Mechanics, Structural Engineering, and Geotechnical Engineering, and is organized into research areas and scientific lines that integrate the specific expertise and methodologies of these fields.
Curricula and Research Areas
Starting from the 42nd cycle, the PhD program is structured into three curricula:
1. Mechanics of Solids and Structures
This curriculum is devoted to fundamental and advanced aspects of the mechanics of solids, materials, and structures, with particular emphasis on theoretical modeling and the formulation of analytical and numerical methods.
The main topics include:
● nonlinear formulations in continuum and structural mechanics;
● constitutive modeling of advanced and traditional materials (composites, metamaterials, biomaterials, nanomaterials, shape memory alloys, masonry);
● multiscale mechanics and coupled phenomena;
● dynamics, stability, identification, and control of structural systems;
● advanced computational methods for the analysis of complex problems;
● experimental validation and model calibration;
● direct and inverse analysis and structural interpretation of natural and artificial systems, including at the micro- and nano-scale.
This curriculum is characterized by a strong focus on foundational aspects and the development of innovative models.
2. Structural Engineering
This curriculum focuses on the design, analysis, and safety of structures, with particular emphasis on extreme actions and seismic behavior.
The main topics include:
● analysis and design of reinforced concrete, steel, and masonry structures;
● earthquake engineering, including seismic action characterization and structural response;
● assessment of vulnerability, reliability, and risk of buildings and infrastructure;
● techniques for protection, control, retrofitting, and upgrading of existing structures;
● soil–structure interaction;
● advanced methods for modeling and simulation of structural response;
● experimental testing, diagnostics, and structural health monitoring;
● safety of complex structures and strategic infrastructure, including bridges and large-scale works;
● analysis and intervention on historical and monumental heritage.
This curriculum integrates theoretical and applied approaches, with a strong focus on structural safety and performance.
3. Geotechnical Engineering
This curriculum is devoted to the study of the mechanical behavior of soils and rocks and to the design and analysis of geotechnical works.
The main topics include:
● experimental characterization and constitutive modeling of soils and rocks;
● development of analytical and numerical methods for geotechnical problems under static and dynamic conditions;
● analysis and design of geotechnical structures (foundations, excavations, retaining structures, tunnels, embankments, dams);
● slope stability and landslide phenomena;
● local seismic response and liquefaction phenomena;
● soil–structure interaction;
● prediction and mitigation of excavation-induced displacements;
● hydraulic and hydro-mechanical processes in soils.
This curriculum combines fundamental research and engineering applications, with direct impact on design practice.
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