Visible and invisible elements of the manuscript book in the Mediterranean World

The Institute of Heritage Science of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR ISPC), in collaboration with the Biblioteca Capitolare of Benevento (Fondazione “Benedetto Bonazzi”), is pleased to announce the 1st Doctoral Seminar titled Visible and Invisible Elements of the Manuscript Book in the Mediterranean world. Southern Medieval Manuscripts: Investigations and Research, to be held in Benevento from 6 to 11 October 2025.

As part of the seminar, a call for applications has been published for 12 scholarships aimed at early-career researchers (graduates, PhD candidates, PhD holders, postdoctoral fellows, junior researchers) interested in exploring medieval manuscripts of the Western Mediterranean through a multidisciplinary lens.

The residential seminar, combining theoretical and practical sessions, will take place at the Biblioteca Capitolare of Benevento , and will explore the latest research methods in manuscript studies—from non-invasive scientific analyses to the use of digital tools for data analysis and sharing, in line with Open Science principles. Particular attention will be given to book production in medieval Southern Italy.

Participants will be hosted at Residenza Pace Vecchia in Benevento, a green and peaceful facility located just minutes from the city’s historic center. Each participant will be provided with a private single room with en-suite bathroom, and full board will be provided on site for the duration of the program.

The daily schedule will include:

• Morning sessions with lectures and direct examination of manuscript and archival collections
• Afternoon sessions dedicated to participants' research presentations

Lectures will be held in Italian, French, English, and Spanish.

How to apply

Applicants are required to submit, no later than 30 July 2025, a single signed PDF file to manoscritti.mediterraneo@ispc.cnr.it, containing:

• Application form with personal details and academic background
• Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages), including ongoing research
• Abstract (min. 4000 characters) and title of the presentation to be delivered
• Letter of recommendation from an academic referee

Participation is free for scholarship recipients (including full board and lodging). A €100 contribution is required, to be paid by 30 September 2025. The Scientific Committee may also accept additional applicants without scholarships, upon evaluation.

Selection results will be announced by 10 September 2025.