The PhD course in Geosciences

Department

Department of Earth and Geo-Environmental Sciences, University of Bari ALDO MORO

Main research activities/topics/projects

• Mechanisms of coastal retreat in calcarenite cliffs by analyzing contributing factors, monitoring erosion rates, and developing predictive models. It will assess the impact of human activities and climate conditions, proposing effective mitigation strategies to protect vulnerable coastal areas;
• Physical and Mechanical study of rocks for assessing material durability and mechanical properties (strength and deformability) in specific microenvironmental conditions; 
• Hydraulic properties of calcarenites or other soft rocks under saturated and unsaturated conditions;
• Slope stability analysis of soil and rock under specific environmental conditions or within the framework of seismic microzonation studies;
• Fracture mechanics and pre-failure processes of rock slopes;
• Analysis of the influence of discontinuities characteristics on its shear strength; and 3D slope stability of rock fall and its effects;
• Stability analysis for embankment dams.

These are topics that can be addressed within the scope of PhD and post-PhD activities in Geosciences at Bari University, with the administrative headquarters in the Department of Earth and Geo-Environmental Sciences. Alternatively, the studies could fall within the scope of agreements with public and private entities, either already in place or under development, still within the activities of the Department of Earth and Geo-Environmental Sciences.

Working language

Working language could be in English and Italian. Spanish or Portuguese could be used by Brazilian colleagues from the universities associated with the project.

Special entry requirements

Interest in the field of engineering geology and, rock and soil mechanics. Lab experience with rock and soil mechanics, facility to work with geotechnics softwares and availability for car travels (including a valid driver license).

Duration in months (min-max)

Master Research: 3 -6

PhD sandwich: 6 - 12

Post Doc: 6 -12