The Alfred Pisani Ph.D. Scholarship in Sustainable Tourism

The Scholarship Award

1. The University of Malta (“UM”) is issuing a scholarship, funded through an agreement with International Hotel Investments p.l.c (“IHI”), facilitated by the Research, Innovation and Development Trust of the University of Malta (“RIDT”), for Ph.D. students to work on research projects which shall focus on an aspect of Sustainable Tourism. 
2. Applications are now open for the scholarship which will cover research in Tourism within the Faculty of Economics, Management & Accountancy.
3. Applicants shall be eligible for Ph.D. studies at UM in terms of the applicable regulations and bye-laws. 
4. The selected candidate is expected to enrol in Ph.D. studies offered by the above-mentioned 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 made by the Faculty Doctoral Committee, the Faculty Board and the Doctoral Academic Committee. 
5. This Award shall cover a basic maintenance allowance of EUR 13,500 per annum for a maximum of 3 years and shall also provide a maximum of EUR 4,500 to cover publications and conferences. The Award will not cover the annual enrolment fee.
6. International candidates are advised to familiarise 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. 
7. Applicants should submit their letter of application by not later than Tuesday 26 May 2026 by email to scholarships.doctoralschool@um.edu.mt 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. 
8. 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 successful candidate based on demonstration of academic excellence and research potential.

Terms and conditions 

1.  At the end of the studies, the Award-holder will be required to submit a final report covering what has been achieved. For monitoring and coordination purposes, the Award-holder may also be requested to provide periodic progress updates (e.g. on a bi-annual basis). 
2. The Award-holder will also be required to submit annual progress reports (normally in May each year) to the Faculty Doctoral Committee, in accordance with the University’s regulations and procedures.
3. The Award will be suspended in the event of a suspension of studies. The Award will also not cover any extension of studies. 
4. The Award may not be held concurrently with another major scholarship or sponsorship award for the same purpose. 
5. 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 the recommendation of the Faculty Doctoral Committee, the Faculty Board and the Doctoral Academic Committee - before engaging in any employment. 
6. 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. 
7. The Award-holder shall abide by all applicable regulations and policies of the UM in force during the course of their studies.
8. The Doctoral School requests that the award holder acknowledges the assistance of IHI and RIDT in any publications arising wholly or partially from the award.
9. Other relevant regulations and policies of the UM shall apply.

The Doctoral School, May 2026