Our research

Research and innovation through design experimentation, to transform cities, regions and the built environment in Italy and abroad.

We stand out for our high level of scientific output and the interdisciplinary nature of our research, which ranges from the scale of the object – through the design and innovation of products and services – to that of the building, and on to the urban and regional levels. The integration of knowledge, methods and scales of investigation enables us to tackle complex issues and develop innovative solutions.

We are the University’s leading department in terms of our ability to attract funding for competitive projects on a per capita basis.

Thanks to an extensive range of highly specialised laboratories spread across our branches in Bologna and Cesena, our research activities combine basic research, computational modelling, historical-critical analysis and applied field experimentation.

This integrated approach fosters innovation and generates tangible benefits for society and the local area. The results take the form of publications, patents and initiatives to promote cultural awareness.

Find out more about our research

Discover the areas and the research groups where new knowledge is generated and developed, the research activities and the people involved.

Research projects

Projects are the means by which we contribute to innovation, make the most of our competencies and resources, and take part in interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral collaborations.

Explore the projects currently underway:

If you are interested in finding out about completed research projects, visit the DA’s research project archive.

Research laboratories

In our laboratories, located on the Bologna and Cesena campuses, research activities are carried out to support project development and academic research.The DA's laboratories

PhD programmes

A PhD degree is the highest level of university education and provides the skills required to carry out high-level research activities.Find out our PhD programmes

Scientific publications

The department’s scientific publications provide a forum for the exchange and dissemination of research results, promoting interdisciplinary approaches, dialogue between disciplines and international engagement.

Departmental and Interdepartmental Research Centres

Interdepartmental Centres carry out research and training activities. They bring together laboratories, infrastructure and research groups from different departments, which collaborate to tackle historical and emerging social challenges.

Enhancing research through ongoing collaboration with national and international organisations and associations

The Department of Architecture - DA promotes and supports its research through its participation in associations, platforms and networks both in Italy and abroad.