Research contracts

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• Research contracts

General information on research contracts

Contract researchers

Contract researchers are employed by the university under fixed-term contracts to carry out research activities within specific research projects. Research activities are carried out under the supervision of a scientific supervisor appointed by the department (tutor).

Research contracts have a duration of two years and can be renewed once for an additional two-year period. Research contracts for national, European, and international research projects have a duration of two years and can be extended by one year. The total duration of research contracts may not exceed five years.

Who can become a contract researcher

The selection process for research contracts is open to candidates with an adequate scientific-professional curriculum and:

• A PhD or equivalent, obtained in Italy or abroad.
• A medical specialisation school diploma for the relevant sectors.

Additionally, candidates who are enrolled in the final year of a doctoral programme or a medical specialization course may also apply, provided that they are expected to complete their degree within six months from the publication date of the selection notice.

Who cannot apply

Permanent staff of the institutions referred to in paragraph 1, Article 22 of Law 240/2010 cannot apply. In addition, those who have benefitted from fixed-term research contracts pursuant to Article 24 of Law 240/2010 are not eligible.

How to become a contract researcher

Research contracts are assigned through a public selection process. During the application phase, candidates must submit a project proposal based on the information provided in the selection notice.

Candidates are evaluated through a comparative procedure based on qualifications and an interview to assess:

• The compliance of the project proposals with the subject of the selection.
• Their scientific and professional background in relation to the research activities covered by the contract.

Compensation

The amount for each position is specified in the respective call for applications and in the contract.

The amount was established through collective bargaining and:

• Cannot be lower than the starting salary for fixed-term researchers.
• Cannot exceed the starting salary for full-time researchers.

Reference legislation: art. 178, paragraph 1, letter g) of CCNL (National Collective Bargaining Agreement) for the Education and Research sector, dated 18 January 2024, covering the 2019-2021 period.

Training and professional development

The university promotes the professional development of its staff through support programs for newly hired employees, and training tools focused on innovation and research quality. Contract researchers are also required to complete mandatory training on workplace safety, health, and data protection.

Useful documents

University regulation on research contracts