UIS Research Centre projects - Interest form

‼️We are thrilled to announce that we are now accepting expressions of interest for the next cycle of projects at UIS Research Centre 🇮🇹🧩

👀 We are looking for both supervisors (PhD candidates, postdocs) and students to join our research projects to solve some of Italy's most puzzling questions.

What is United Italian Societies (UIS) Research Centre?

United Italian Societies Research Centre is a pioneering, student-driven think tank part of the broader international student network of United Italian Societies (UIS). Led by Italian PhD students abroad, students carry out research projects under the guidance of PhD students and early career researchers and inform policy proposals of national and international relevance for academia, institutions, and the broader society. Our mission is to harness Italy’s brightest young minds to produce evidence-based analyses addressing the country’s most pressing challenges, turning ideas into action.

How do I propose/choose a project?

If you apply as a supervisor (PhD student or postdoctoral researcher), you will be invited to propose a project idea aligned with your expertise and research interests. A fully developed proposal is not required at the application stage; however, indicating your research field is required. You will have the opportunity to refine and discuss your idea with our team, who will assess its suitability for the current project cycle. Supervisors are selected from diverse academic backgrounds to ensure a broad range of projects across multiple disciplines.

If you apply as a student and are selected, you will be able to rank the projects you are most interested in. Our team will then match students to projects and supervisors based on preferences and availability.

How long do the projects run, and what is the time commitment?

Projects typically run for 6–8 months and culminate in a final presentation, usually held between October and November. The time commitment is flexible and can be agreed upon within each team. The UIS Research Centre team will hold regular check-ins with research groups to ensure smooth progress and provide support where needed.

We also organise interim agoras and networking events to foster collaboration, share research ideas, and build a sense of community. As a general guideline, supervisors are expected to commit approximately 2 hours per week, while students typically dedicate around 5 hours per week, with increased involvement around internal deadlines and during the final stages of report writing and presentation preparation.

What’s in it for me?

Supervisors have the opportunity to design and lead their own research projects while developing leadership and mentoring skills. Students will strengthen their research capabilities under the guidance of experienced researchers and benefit from structured mentorship. The Research Centre also offers training opportunities throughout the programme. Although participation is voluntary, members gain access to a vibrant network of talented, like-minded early career researchers, participate in UIS events, and showcase their work to Italian institutions abroad.

What are the project outputs?

Each project culminates in a research report or policy paper, alongside a final presentation delivered at Italian institutions. Previous projects have been presented at venues such as the Consulate General of Italy in London and through online events. Written outputs are shared across UIS communication channels and with relevant media outlets, ensuring broad visibility and impact.

When will I hear back whether I have been selected?

Applications are on a rolling basis. We will contact successful candidates in January-February.