17 January 2025

Up to three PhD candidates from Leiden University can join the workshop 'Museums and new challenges: virtual technologies, societal responsibility and environmental sustainability', happening from 5-10 May in Bologna, Italy. They will join doctoral researchers from across the Una Europa alliance at this unique, transdisciplinary event. 

Participants will engage with topics such as digital technologies, societal responsibility, and environmental sustainability — key themes that are reshaping the role of museums today. The collaborative and interdisciplinary approach offers new perspectives and valuable insights into how museums can adapt and thrive in a changing world. 

Why participate

Attendees will benefit from:

• Hands-on experience. Help design and curate two virtual exhibitions on environmental heritage and dissonant heritage — gaining practical experience digital exhibitions alongside museum professionals.
• Networking opportunities. Connect with museum professionals, academics, and industry stakeholders to expand your professional network and build lasting collaborations. 
• An academic approach. Support your academic and professional growth by attending interactive sessions and lectures from international experts, focusing on how museums adapt to technological, societal, and environmental changes. 
• ECTS credits. Earn 4 ECTS credits, recognised by Una Europa universities. 

Workshop structure 

The workshop will feature lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and meetings with museum professionals, archivists, NGOs, and other heritage stakeholders. It will be interactive, encouraging participation from doctoral researchers before, during, and after the event. 

Pre-Workshop phase 

Engage in online seminars introducing key concepts and the process of creating virtual exhibitions. Two virtual exhibitions will be developed: one focusing on Environmental Heritage, to be launched in May during the in-person workshop, and another on Difficult Heritage, which will be inaugurated in December 2025. Participants will play an active role in the development of both exhibitions. 

Post-Workshop phase 

At a half-day online seminar in June 2025, participants will present and discuss their final papers, allowing for further academic exchange and feedback.  

The primary language will be English. 

Costs and funding 

There is no participation fee. It is possible to apply for a mobility grant through the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme to support travel and accommodation costs.  

How to apply 

Submit the following documents by February 8, 2025: 

• Abstract of your PhD thesis (max. 500 words) 
• CV (max. 2 pages) 
• Letter of introduction from your PhD supervisor or academic referee (max. 300 words) 
• Proposal abstract for an oral presentation, workshop, or exhibition. 

All documents must be compiled into a single PDF and sent to: filippo.espinoza@unibo.it  

More information about the programme is available on the Una Europa website.