Fulbright Lectureship in Sciences and Technologies at the University of Salerno
Italy
Number of recipients
In addition to being a prestigious academic exchange program, the Fulbright Program is designed to expand and strengthen relationships between the people of the United States and citizens of other nations and to promote international understanding and cooperation. To support this mission, Fulbright Scholars may be asked to give public talks, mentor students, and otherwise engage with the host community, in addition to their primary activities.
The Fulbright Scholar is expected to teach one or two courses to be defined in agreement with the host department.
Type of courses: Lectures and seminars for PhD students; lectures, seminars, and workshops for partner universities or institutions collaborating with the University of Salerno
Level: Primarily PhD level; may include Master's level and professional development courses for academic or institutional partners
Teaching load: 30 hours per semester
Average class size: 5–15 students
Course and syllabus requirements: To be defined in coordination with the host department at the Università di Salerno
Other Grant Activity:
Advise and/or Mentor Students: Fulbright scholars will have the valuable opportunity to advise and mentor graduate and doctoral students, particularly those involved in interdisciplinary research aligned with the scholar’s area of expertise. This especially includes guiding thesis projects, and supporting the development of academic and professional skills. Scholars will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of researchers and professionals in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Sustainable Technologies, and Digital Innovation.
Assist in Faculty, Curriculum, and/or Program Development: Scholars are encouraged to actively contribute to the enhancement of academic programs by sharing international perspectives and best practices in teaching and research. This may include collaborating with faculty on the design of new course modules, contributing to the development of interdisciplinary programs, or participating in strategic discussions on curriculum innovation. The University of Salerno values the input of visiting scholars in strengthening its educational offerings and fostering a global outlook within its academic community.
Conduct a Research Project Designated by the Host Institution: The University of Salerno offers Fulbright scholars the opportunity to participate in high-impact, institutionally driven research initiatives aligned with strategic areas such as environmental sustainability, digital health, smart technologies, and social innovation. These projects are often part of larger national or European research frameworks, providing scholars with access to advanced facilities, interdisciplinary teams, and robust academic networks. Participation in these initiatives allows scholars to contribute meaningfully to ongoing research efforts with clear societal relevance and global reach.
Conduct a Research Project of the Applicant’s Choosing: Fulbright scholars are also encouraged to propose and pursue independent research projects that align with their academic interests and expertise. The University of Salerno welcomes innovative proposals that can benefit from collaboration with local faculty and research centers. The institution supports a flexible and open research environment, fostering new ideas and cross-disciplinary connections. This approach ensures that scholars can tailor their experience to both personal research goals and mutual academic enrichment.
The approximate teaching/research ratio is 60% teaching/40% research.
University of Salerno, https://www.unisa.it
https://web.unisa.it/en/university/structures/departments
The award start can be agreed upon with the host department.
Artificial Intelligence, Energy Transition and Environmental Sustainability, Digital Health and Biotechnology, Cybersecurity and Data Protection, Smart Cities and Sustainable Mobility, Sustainable Agriculture, Social Innovation and Digital Inclusion.
Teaching or Guest Lecturing at Other University Departments and Local Institutions: In addition to core teaching responsibilities, scholars may be invited to offer guest lectures or seminars in other departments within the University of Salerno, as well as at partner universities and institutions. This offers a unique platform to share expertise, broaden professional networks, and engage with a wider academic audience.
Introduction and Interaction with the Local and University Community: Scholars will be welcomed into a vibrant academic and cultural community. The university organizes regular events, seminars, and outreach activities that foster connections between scholars, students, faculty, and local stakeholders. Opportunities for cultural immersion, language exchange, and participation in community engagement initiatives are strongly supported.
Other Opportunities: The University of Salerno is part of NEOLAiA, a European University alliance that promotes mobility, innovation, and cooperation among nine European institutions. Scholars may have the opportunity to contribute to NEOLAiA initiatives, including workshops, joint programs, and international teaching and research activities. Additional opportunities for professional development, conference participation, and exploration of the rich cultural heritage of Southern Italy further enhance the experience.
All applicants must meet the Program eligibility requirements (click to review the requirements).
Conversational Italian is helpful to better integrate into the local community, but it is not mandatory.
The ideal candidate will be a university professor, preferably at the rank of Full or Associate Professor, with a minimum of seven years of postdoctoral experience in one or more of the following areas: Artificial Intelligence, Energy Transition, Environmental Sustainability, Digital Health and Biotechnology, Cybersecurity and Data Protection, Smart Cities and Sustainable Mobility, Sustainable Agriculture, Social Innovation, or Digital Humanities.
Candidates should demonstrate a strong record of research excellence, international collaboration, and teaching experience at the graduate or doctoral level. A proven ability to engage in interdisciplinary work and contribute to academic program development will be considered an asset.
Contact person at the U.S.-Italy Fulbright Commission: Barbara Pizzella, Senior Program Officer, bpizzella@fulbright.it, and Chiara Petrilli, Program Officer, cpetrilli@fulbright.it
Monthly stipend of €4,500 for a total of €13,500 for three months ($4,726 and $14,177; the amounts may change depending on exchange rate fluctuations). The award, which is a maintenance allowance for the entire period, is disbursed in Euro currency.
International Travel allowance of €1,100 ($1,155; the amount may change depending on exchange rate fluctuations). The allowance is disbursed in Euro currency.
As a rule, large cities in the North and the Center of Italy are more expensive, while living in the South is less costly, even in larger cities. An average monthly budget for two persons could range between €1.400-€2.500 ($1,470 -$2,625 approx.). Rent is usually the major expense, ranging between €600-€1.500 ($631-$1,575 approx.). Individuals’ lifestyles, and choosing to live downtown or on the outskirts of a city, can make a difference.
The following websites could help navigate the costs of living in Italy. While none of them is sponsored by official institutions, the information is provided mostly by international visitors themselves and expats.
https://wise.com/gb/blog/cost-of-living-in-italy; https://internationalliving.com/countries/italy/cost-of-living-in-italy/; https://www.mondayfeelings.com/cost-to-live-in-italy/; https://www.internationalcitizens.com/living-abroad/costs/italy.php; https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Italy…;
The University of Salerno does not directly provide on-campus accommodation for visiting scholars and their dependents. However assistance in finding suitable accommodation is provided through the International Office, which supports visiting scholars in identifying rental options near the university or in the surrounding areas.
The approximate monthly cost for a furnished apartment varies depending on size and location:
- One-bedroom apartment: €400 – €600/month ($456/$684)
- Two-bedroom apartment (suitable for small families): €600 – €800/month ($684/$912)
All costs are indicative and may vary slightly depending on the time of year and specific housing features (utilities, furnishings, proximity to campus, etc.). Amounts may also change depending on exchange rate fluctuations)
Accommodation in downtown Salerno is generally more expensive.
The University of Salerno is committed to providing Fulbright scholars with a supportive and well-equipped academic environment. The following resources and facilities will be made available:
- Administrative and academic support will be provided as needed to facilitate the scholar’s teaching, research, and integration into university life.
- Full access to the university’s extensive library collections, including physical and digital resources, databases, and research journals.
- Scholars will be provided with dedicated office space and a personal computer to support their teaching and research activities.
- Full access to the university’s IT infrastructure, including high-speed internet, learning platforms, and research software.
- Scholars may take advantage of the University Canteen for on-campus dining (access included in the Scholarship).
- Fulbright scholars will enjoy facilitated access to university sports facilities and language courses. Additionally, they are welcome to participate in the cultural life of the campus, including public lectures, concerts, and events hosted by the university.
Final grant amounts will be determined prior to the start of the academic year and are subject to the availability of funds. The United States Department of State and the Fulbright Commission in the host country reserve the right to alter, without notice, participating countries, number of awards and allowances.
Italy
To learn more about Fulbright U.S. Scholar awards in Italy for 2026-27, please view our archived webinar and slides to hear directly from the Fulbright Commission, IIE staff, and U.S. Scholar alums regarding award details, the scholar experience, and application guidance.
The program in Italy is open to scholars and professionals from all disciplines; preferences are indicated under individual award descriptions. Scholars may be invited to give occasional lectures or seminars at various Italian universities. Some of the awards offer free housing (paid for by the host institution), or a financial contribution to offset housing costs.
Preference for candidates who have not already had substantial experience (5 years or more) studying or teaching in an Italian university.
The academic calendar, which is usually divided into two semesters, is generally October to June. However, dates may vary depending on the university.
Entry Visas to Italy: Selected grantees must enter Italy on a study or, in some cases, a research visa covering the authorized length of the grant. Information about the two visas and their application process is available on the Italy Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. The possibility of staying for longer periods and/or being accompanied by dependents is subject to the provisions and restrictions of Italian Law. Italian embassy and consulates are the sole authorities in matters pertaining to visa issues.
Basic Visa Information: U.S. grantees must apply for a Study Visa (D) at the Italian Embassy or Consulate having jurisdiction in the State where they reside. The Commission will support their application with a letter that will be sent to grantees after they have signed the official grant authorization but will not be able to assist grantees in their application procedures.
Due to restrictions in the Italian Immigration Law, there are potential challenges related to the duration of grantee stay in Italy, and the visa and permit-to-stay for their dependents.
The requested duration of the grantee's stay in Italy should not be much longer than the official grant period. In case of significant discrepancy (more than 30 days overall), the Consulate may reject the grantee's visa request.
Grantees who wish to be accompanied to Italy by their family dependents should be aware that the Commission cannot sponsor their dependents’ visas. Available options are:
1. Dependents may stay in Italy without a visa for 90 days
2. Dependents may enroll in an Italian language course and apply for their study visa (the Commission cannot assist in identifying the course, nor does it have the funding to allocate for this purpose)
3. Dependents could apply for a Ricongiungimento Familiare. The procedure entails that grantees travel to Italy on their own and once they arrive in Italy they must request a nulla osta per il ricongiungimento familiare. The nulla osta will be issued within 180 days from the request, which may exceed their grant length. Only then will dependents be able to travel to Italy to join the grantee and to apply for a permit to stay for ricongiungimento familiare.
Enrichment activity during your stay: Each June, the U.S.-Italy Fulbright Commission hosts a meeting where U.S. grantees returning to the States after their grant and Italian grantees departing to begin their grant meet, interact, network, and often start relationships that continue in the United States. The Meeting--a celebration of the Fulbright experience--is held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of the United States. Italian alumni are also invited to participate in the day's activities.
HELPFUL LINKS
A listing of Italian universities and access to their homepages can be found at A valuable search engine can be found at https://cercauniversita.cineca.it/ https://www.universitaly.it/
Useful links with information about the Italian academic system can be found at https://www.cimea.it/EN/
To view more about life in Italy, visit here: https://madeinitaly.gov.it/en/
For further information on the awards, contact Barbara Pizzella, Senior Program Officer at the Commission, at bpizzella@fulbright.it, and Chiara Petrilli, Program Officer, at cpetrilli@fulbright.it.
Fulbright Italy Alumni Meeting September 30, 2019, at Museum MAXXI in Rome
Visit our Scholar Directory to view and search all Fulbright alumni. You can also learn more about Fulbright Alumni Ambassadors.
Academic calendar:
1st Semester Lessons
Start: September / October
End: December / January
Exams: Regular session: January / February; Retake session: March
2nd Semester - Lessons
Start: February / March
End: May / June
Exams: Regular session: June / July; Retake session: September