Food Lab – Laboratorio per la storia dell’alimentazione

Department

Dipartimento di Scienze Economiche e Aziendali (DISEA), University of Parma 

Main research activities/topics/projects

The main research activity focuses on the analysis of food nomadism processes, with particular reference to bidirectional flows between Italy and Brazil. This line of research investigates how food practices, products, and knowledge circulate across migratory trajectories, shaping transnational connections and cultural exchanges.

A central perspective concerns food as a key element of memory and identity. Food is approached as a cultural “binder” that contributes to the construction and reinforcement of identities within migratory contexts. Particular attention is devoted to the role of food in maintaining links with the country of origin, as well as in redefining identities among second and subsequent generations born in the diaspora, who are fully integrated into the social and cultural contexts of the destination countries.

The research activities will be framed within ongoing postdoctoral research projects, offering candidates the opportunity to be integrated into structured research environments and collaborative academic work.

The research combines approaches from food history, migration studies, and cultural history, with a strong emphasis on archival sources, material culture, and visual documentation. Candidates (Master, PhD, Post Doc) may be involved in projects addressing transnational food systems, identity-building processes, and the historical evolution of food cultures between Italy and Brazil.

Working language

Italian and English (both are used in research activities; supervision can be provided in either language)

Special entry requirements

- Background in food history, with particular reference to studies on food identities 

- Interest in archival research and primary sources 

- Basic knowledge of digital tools for research (e.g. databases, image analysis, or digital humanities methods) is an asset 

- Reading knowledge of Italian is recommended; English proficiency required

Duration in months (min-max)

Post Doc: 2-3