Mariagrazia Portera is offering a fully funded PhD position at the University of Florence, Italy.
The announcement reads:
Are you passionate about bridging the gap between philosophy and the natural sciences? Do you want to investigate how aesthetic values, ecological concepts, and scientific practices intersect to shape our understanding of the living world? We are looking for a highly motivated, brilliant candidate to join our research team at the University of Florence for a fully funded PhD position starting in November 2026.
This PhD project sits at the cutting edge of contemporary philosophical and ecological debate, focusing on Aesthetics and Biodiversity. While the specific dissertation topic will be refined and tailored in collaboration with the selected candidate, the research will explore how aesthetic appreciation, valuation, and representation impact biodiversity conservation, ecological theories, and environmental policy. By joining our lab, you will benefit from an interdisciplinary ecosystem: You will work closely with the ABC-Lab (Aesthetics for Biological Conservation – Interdepartmental Lab), integrating philosophical inquiry with empirical insights.
Your research will be conducted within the framework of active, strategic agreements with the UniFi Department of Biology, offering access to cross-disciplinary expertise, seminars, and scientific networks. We welcome expressions of interest from candidates holding (or about to complete) a Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in Philosophy, Environmental Humanities, or related fields. Ideal candidates should demonstrate strong competencies or a solid background in one or more of the following areas: Aesthetics (Environmental, Evolutionary, or Empirical Aesthetics), Philosophy of Biodiversity / Environmental Philosophy, Philosophy of Biology / Philosophy of Science (with a particular focus on the relationship between “Sciences and Values”).
Fluency in English, excellent writing skills, and a strong propensity for interdisciplinary teamwork are essential. For inquiries and details about the application procedures (call for application will be officially open between the beginning of July and the beginning of August), please reach out to Mariagrazia Portera, mariagrazia.portera@unifi.it.