University of Turin

What you'll study

The doctoral programme centres on original research in areas spanning clinical medicine, surgical sciences, translational and experimental pathology, molecular medicine, epidemiology and public health. Candidates typically work within an investigator-led research group and follow an individualised research plan that culminates in a doctoral thesis and public defence.

Course structure combines intensive laboratory or clinical research with formal training modules and transferable-skills activities. Typical components include:

• Research project: the core of the programme, supervised by one or more academic mentors, delivered in an affiliated department, hospital or research institute.
• Advanced seminars and journal clubs: regular meetings to present data, critique literature and refine experimental design.
• Methodology and statistics: training in quantitative methods, study design, biostatistics and bioinformatics relevant to medical research.
• Clinical and translational modules: courses on clinical trial design, regulatory frameworks, patient-oriented outcomes, and translational pathways from bench to bedside (where relevant to the project).
• Research integrity and ethics: mandatory instruction on clinical research ethics, good clinical practice, and responsible conduct of research.
• Transferable skills: training in scientific communication, grant-writing, project management, teaching and entrepreneurship.

Assessment is primarily via progress reports, seminar presentations, publications in peer-reviewed journals and the written thesis followed by an oral examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a medical degree (MD/MBBS or Italian laurea magistrale in Medicina e Chirurgia) or a relevant MSc/Laurea magistrale in a biomedical discipline with strong research experience. Evidence of research aptitude is required, which can include a completed thesis, peer-reviewed publications, or documented laboratory/clinical research placements.

Typical application materials include:

• Curriculum vitae and academic transcripts showing prior degrees and coursework.
• A research proposal or statement of research interests that aligns with available supervisors and research groups.
• Letters of reference from academic or clinical referees who can attest to research potential.
• Where applicable, proof of professional medical registration for clinicians and any required authorisations for clinical research activities.
• Language proficiency evidence: many supervisors work in English, but knowledge of Italian may be required for clinical interactions or certain teaching duties; applicants should check project-specific language expectations.

Admission often involves an interview with prospective supervisors or a selection committee. International applicants should ensure their qualifications are comparable to Italian higher-education standards and follow the university's guidance on equivalence procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Medicine and Surgery pursue diverse careers in academia, healthcare and industry. Common pathways include:

• Academic research and teaching: postdoctoral positions, research fellowships and eventual faculty roles in medical schools and research institutes.
• Clinical research and hospital leadership: roles as clinical investigators, heads of research units in university hospitals, and senior clinical specialists combining patient care with research.
• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors: positions in translational research, clinical development, regulatory affairs, and medical affairs.
• Public health and policy: research and advisory roles within public health agencies, health technology assessment bodies and non-governmental organisations.
• Entrepreneurship and innovation: leadership in spin-offs, start-ups and technology transfer activities arising from translational research.

PhD training emphasises publication, grant-writing and networking to prepare candidates for competitive postdoctoral funding and independent research careers.

Why study at University of Turin

The University of Turin offers a long-established medical faculty integrated with major teaching hospitals and specialised research centres, providing access to a broad clinical case mix and advanced laboratory facilities. The campus environment supports interdisciplinary collaboration across basic science, clinical departments and public health, enabling translational research from bench to bedside.

Students benefit from supervision by internationally active academics and clinicians, collaborations with regional healthcare institutions, and connections to national and European research networks. The university also provides structured doctoral training, professional-development courses and administrative support for grant applications and international mobility, helping graduates move into competitive research and clinical leadership roles.