The PhD program in MEET (Manufacturing Engineering for Emerging Technologies), promoted by the University of Bergamo and its industrial and research partners, offers an advanced education and research pathway aimed at addressing the complexity of next-generation manufacturing systems in the context of Industry 5.0.

In particular, the main objective is to provide advanced training and research opportunities to develop highly qualified researchers with multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral competencies in the following areas:

• intelligent and data-driven manufacturing systems, integrating artificial intelligence for monitoring, optimization and decision-support;
• advanced automation, robotics and human–machine interaction in smart and collaborative production environments;
• digital twin, simulation and modelling techniques for the design, control and optimization of products, processes and systems;
• product and process innovation, including additive manufacturing and advanced production technologies;
• sustainability, energy efficiency and resilience of production systems;
• industrial cybersecurity and digital integration of manufacturing systems.

Doctoral candidates are expected to acquire advanced knowledge of selected enabling technologies, together with competencies in the design and implementation of manufacturing solutions at both shop-floor and organizational levels. Throughout the program, they will develop a rigorous research methodology, with a strong emphasis on technology transfer and the ability to address complex engineering challenges, integrating sustainability in all its dimensions.

The training path fosters the development of the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams, while strengthening critical thinking and the capacity to evaluate both their own research and that of others. Doctoral candidates will also be able to develop and communicate original scientific contributions, including through active participation in scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences. An additional key competence is the ability to share knowledge and expertise, contributing to a collaborative and dissemination-oriented research environment.

The program is characterized by a strong interdisciplinary approach and close collaboration with industry, enabling the integration of theoretical research and practical applications, while promoting technology transfer and innovation in real industrial contexts.

Doctoral candidates benefit from cooperation with industrial partners, research centres and international institutions, fostering knowledge exchange, exposure to different technological and cultural environments, and the development of a global research network. The program also includes research periods abroad and access to advanced laboratories and experimental facilities.

Duration: the program lasts three years.

Career opportunities: PhD graduates will be equipped to address the challenges of intelligent and sustainable manufacturing systems and will be able to pursue careers in academia, research centres and advanced industrial sectors, contributing to the digital and sustainable transformation of manufacturing at national and international level.