Fully Funded Erasmus+ KA171 Fellowship in Milan: Looking to get your passport stamped, earn some academic street cred, and soak up the Italian lifestyle? Say no more. The Fully Funded Erasmus+ KA171 Fellowship in Milan for Fall 2025 is one of the best opportunities out there for grad students wanting to expand their research horizons. Think of it as a fully funded study-abroad-meets-fieldwork gig in one of the most iconic cities in Europe—Milan.
Backed by the European Union and hosted by the University of Milano-Bicocca (UNIMIB), this fellowship gives you up to 60 days of hands-on, immersive research experience in fields like marine biology, environmental science, chemistry, oceanography, and more. Not only does it cover your travel and living expenses, but it also connects you with international researchers and labs pushing the boundaries of environmental innovation.
So if you’re a U.S.-based graduate student, especially from the University of Washington, and you’ve got a knack for science and a taste for adventure, this is your moment to shine.
Fully Funded Erasmus+ KA171 Fellowship in Milan
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Erasmus+ KA171 Fellowship (Fall 2025) |
| Host University | University of Milano-Bicocca (UNIMIB), Milan, Italy |
| Duration | 60 days |
| Funding | Fully funded (includes travel and living expenses) |
| Eligible Fields | Marine biology, chemistry, environmental science, chemical engineering, oceanography, etc. |
| Eligibility | Graduate students from University of Washington (and other partner institutions) |
| Application Deadline | May 26, 2025 |
| Contact | [email protected] |
| Official Link | UW Application Call |
Look, opportunities like this don’t come around every semester. You’re getting international research experience, a stellar line on your CV, and the kind of cultural exposure that transforms people. If you’re serious about a career in environmental science or chemistry, this fellowship is a total game-changer.
And yeah, the free travel and gelato don’t hurt either.
So don’t wait until the last minute. Reach out, get your documents in order, and apply before May 26. Future you will be grateful you did.
What Is the Erasmus+ KA171 Fellowship?
The Erasmus+ program has been a cornerstone of international education in Europe since the 1980s. The KA171 action is a relatively new branch that opens up exchanges with non-EU countries. This particular fellowship is tailored for U.S.-based grad students and aims to foster cross-cultural collaboration in research.
UNIMIB is a modern, research-driven institution located in Milan—Italy’s financial and fashion capital. Under this program, the university welcomes visiting fellows to collaborate on environmental and chemical sciences projects, offering access to high-tech labs, field studies, and cross-institutional mentoring.
Best part? This is a no-cost-to-you opportunity. You get academic enrichment, global experience, and cultural immersion—all without worrying about tuition, flights, housing, or even meals.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Eligibility might vary slightly by partner university, but here’s what UW applicants definitely need:
- Enrolled in a graduate-level program in a relevant scientific field
- Good academic standing (preferably with some research experience)
- Demonstrated interest in sustainability, pollution science, or chemical/environmental research
- Flexibility to travel and stay abroad for 60 continuous days
- Clear academic and professional goals that align with the fellowship
You’ll need to make a case for how this experience fits into your future. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, email [email protected].
What Kind of Research Will You Do in Milan?
Under the guidance of Dr. Francesco Saliu and his research team, you’ll contribute to projects exploring:
- Microplastic detection in freshwater and marine ecosystems
- Organic pollutant tracing through spectroscopy
- Innovative materials for environmental clean-up
- Comparative chemical analysis of pollutants using advanced instruments
The lab offers top-tier resources like:
- GC-MS and HPLC systems
- Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)
- Clean room facilities
- Real-time environmental data analytics platforms
This isn’t just data-entry work. You’ll actively shape the research process, possibly co-author papers, and join lab meetings, symposia, and field visits.
Fully Funded Erasmus+ KA171 Fellowship in Milan Guide to Apply
1. Craft a Killer Proposal (max 2 pages)
Address the following:
- Academic background & research experience
- Why Milan and why this lab?
- What do you plan to research?
- How will this experience benefit your career?
- How you plan to integrate culturally
2. Create a Strong CV
Include:
- Research roles and outputs (papers, presentations)
- Relevant courses or lab training
- Professional experience (TA-ships, internships, etc.)
- Languages spoken (Italian not required but a plus!)
3. Get Your Transcript
- Provide your latest academic transcript. A digital unofficial version is typically acceptable unless otherwise stated.
4. Develop a Mobility Plan
This should outline:
- Daily or weekly objectives
- Expected lab responsibilities
- Any collaborative plans or seminars
5. Submit All Materials
Email everything (PDFs only) to [email protected] by May 26, 2025.
Double- and triple-check that all parts are included. Incomplete apps are a fast track to the rejection pile.
How You’ll Be Evaluated
The review panel will look at:
- Proposal Quality (40 pts) – Is your research plan clear, achievable, and impactful?
- CV & Transcript (50 pts) – Do your background and academics show readiness?
- Cultural Fit & Language Readiness (10 pts) – Can you handle working/living abroad?
You need 80+ points to be seriously competitive, so bring your A-game.
FAQs On Fully Funded Erasmus+ KA171 Fellowship in Milan
Q: Do I need to know Italian?
A: Not at all. Most work is in English. But knowing how to say “Cappuccino, per favore” helps.
Q: Can undergrads apply?
A: Nope, sorry. This is strictly for grad students.
Q: What if I’m graduating in Summer 2025?
A: You must still be enrolled during Fall 2025.
Q: Can I extend my stay beyond 60 days?
A: Not under this grant, but you can discuss additional opportunities with UNIMIB or your advisor.
Q: Is Milan expensive?
A: Yes, but the fellowship covers enough to live comfortably as a student. Stick to student cafés, local markets, and public transit.
Life in Milan: What You’ll Love
- Transportation: Trains, trams, metros—you’re covered
- Culture: Art galleries, historical landmarks, football games (Forza Milan!)
- Food: Pizza, pasta, gelato—yes, it’s as good as they say
- Travel Perks: Take weekend trips to Venice, Florence, or even Switzerland
- Campus Life: UNIMIB hosts over 30,000 students with events, clubs, and study lounges
Living in Milan will challenge you in the best ways—culturally, intellectually, and personally.
