1. The Scholarship Award

1.1 The University of Malta (“UM”) is issuing a scholarship, funded through an agreement with the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV, Italy), for Ph.D. students to work on research projects which shall focus on the definition of the seismicity of the Sicily Channel in terms of hypocentral parameters, seismic energy release, faulting style and associated tectonic regime, to be framed in the broader context of the geodynamics of the central Mediterranean

1.2 Applications are now open for the scholarship which will cover research within the Faculty of Science (hereinafter the “Faculty”)

1.3 Applicants must be eligible for Ph.D. studies at UM in terms of the applicable regulations and bye-laws.

1.4 The selected candidate is expected to enroll in full-time Ph.D. studies offered by the Faculty. The scholarship award (the “Award”) is for a maximum of three years (full-time studies) and can be taken up as from the approved Ph.D. commencement date, as approved by Senate, based on the recommendations received by the Faculty Board and the Doctoral Academic Committee.

1.5 This Award shall cover a basic annual maintenance allowance up to €20,400 (€1,700 per month) and a maximum of €5,000 per annum to cover bench fees, for a maximum of 3 years. The Award shall also provide a maximum of €3,800 to cover publications and conferences. The Award will not cover the annual enrollment fee or any tuition fees.

1.6 International candidates are advised to familiarize themselves with information available on the website of the International Office when applying, particularly to the sections concerning tuition fees, English Language requirements, visas and e-residence permit conditions and requirements. It is important to note that the Award does not cover all the costs related to studying and living in Malta, and international candidates will need to provide assurance that they have the funds available to cover their stay and studies in Malta.

1.7 Non-EU/EEA nationals can apply for the tuition fee waiver scholarship offered by UM once they commence their studies, which may provide between 40% and 100% of the applicable tuition fee waiver to deserving students. Only applicants who have been accepted unconditionally to read for the Ph.D. are eligible to apply for such tuition fee waiver scholarship. Fee waivers are not an automatic right for the selected candidate.

1.8 Applicants should submit their letter of application by not later than 13 November 2024 by e-mail together with:

• a copy of their curriculum vitae, and 
• a scanned copy of their certificates. 

The scholarship is intended to support students who have clear goals for their future. Applicants are expected to explain how they believe doctoral research will allow them to shape their plans after graduation. Applicants are expected to declare any special attributes and accomplishments that they consider make them deserving of the scholarship.

Late applications will not be considered.

1.9 The selection procedure will consist of the following:

 

• a. scrutiny of qualifications and experience claimed and supported by testimonials and/or certificates (copies to be included with the application);
• b. shortlisting; and
• c. an interview and/or an extended interview.

The selection panel will make its final decision on the candidate based on demonstration of academic excellence and research potential.

1.10 Further information may be obtained by contacting Professor Sebastiano D'Amico via email. 

2. Terms and conditions

2.1 The Award will be suspended in the event of a suspension of studies. The Award will also not cover any extension of studies.

2.2 The Award may not be held concurrently with another major scholarship or sponsorship award for the same purpose.

2.3 The Award-holder may not engage in employment which is likely to interfere with the progress of their research and must seek the permission of Senate - on a recommendation of the Faculty Doctoral Committee, the Board and the Doctoral Academic Committee - before engaging in any employment.

2.4 The Faculty Doctoral Committee must be kept informed about the nature and extent of the Award-holder’s employment commitments throughout their period of study.

2.5 The Award-holder shall abide by all applicable regulations and policies of the UM in force during the course of their studies.

2.6 The Award-holder will be required to provide progress reports on an annual basis (normally in May each year) to the Faculty Doctoral Committee, as required by University regulations and procedures. At the end of their studies, the Award-holder shall provide a final report, covering what has been achieved.

2.7 The Doctoral School requests that the award holder acknowledges the assistance of INGV in any publications arising wholly or partially from the award.

2.8 Other relevant regulations and policies of the UM shall apply.

The Doctoral School, October 2024