SIS: A multidisciplinary Center that investigates the challenges associated with the processes of globalization and European integration
The School of International Studies organizes and supports many research activities in the field of European and international studies. These activities are predominantly characterized by a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach.
The School of International Studies develops multidisciplinary research activities addressing the challenges associated with the processes of globalization and European integration. The complexity of modern societies implies that no single disciplinary approach is sufficient to understand the rapid social, political, economic and institutional changes currently occurring both in Europe and worldwide, therefore the activities feature predominantly a multidisciplinary approach.
Current Research projects
The School has been actively involved in a series of research projects, funded both internally and externally, augmenting the scientific activity of its group of young, qualified and dynamic researchers. Faculty members work on a number of research projects that involve colleagues from other Departments of the University of Trento and external scholars and institutions. A list of ongoing research projects is available on the page dedicated to Current research projects at SIS.
Main broad topics
Research activities at SIS revolve around four main broad topics.
- The first line of research looks at the social, political, institutional and economic implications of a globally interconnected world. Building on the diverse disciplinary background of the faculty, research in this area investigates various aspects of trade integration such as the behavior of firms in international markets, the relationship between trade and natural resources, and the trade-related determinants of anti-establishment movements. Moreover, the research activities focus on the challenges facing international law in a globalized world and on the emergence of China as a new key player in international affairs.
- A second active area of research deals with international relations and security, and their interaction with technology and innovation. Specific topics of research include cyber-security and counter-terrorism, non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, the relationship between military doctrines and military technology, the changing role of international institutions, state and non-state actors in conflict situations. Moreover, the research covers newly emerging security issues regarding the environment, population growth and migration flows.
- The School of International Studies has a long-standing research interest in European issues, in particular, those related to the tension between integration and disintegration, and with the social and institutional challenges triggered by the recent economic crisis. Current research in this area includes the rising support for populist parties, the protection of minority rights across Europe, the role of subnational entities in the European integration, the EU external action, and the evolution of economic policies in Europe.
- Scholars at the School of International Studies are working also on the historical roots and the evolution of a globally interconnected world. Through specific expertise on different geographical areas (Africa, America, Asia and Europe), the research focuses on the historical transformation of the international system, with a focus on themes (such as economic and human development; human rights; environment; the global Cold War; international security) at the intersection of history and other disciplines.
Publications
The most recent publications by the Faculty Members of the School of International Studies are available here.
PhD Research
The development of an interdisciplinary education lies at the heart of the PhD programme. Comprehension of the theoretical approaches and knowledge of empirical methods are tightly integrated into the course and theoretical propositions are verified empirically in order to encourage the student to develop a capacity for critical thought on changes in the international system. Full details in the dedicated page.
Network of partners
The School has formed partnerships with a number of national and international research centres and think tanks as well as with other Departments and Faculties within the University of Trento. It has set up special programmes for meeting and hosting national and international scholars.
Events
During the academic year, the School organizes a series of events. It holds a series of weekly seminars on issues relating to European and international studies, including international security, and promotes Conferences and Research Workshops. It also collaborates with other local, national and international research bodies to set up dissemination events and to promote research.