Accurate assessment and strengthening techniques for existing masonry, reinforced concrete and prestressed reinforced concrete structures and infrastructures, including those belonging to cultural heritage
The University of Brescia is pleased to announce the Advanced Skill Course (ASC) entitled “Accurate assessment and strengthening techniques for existing masonry, reinforced concrete and prestressed reinforced concrete structures and infrastructures, including those belonging to cultural heritage” which will take place in Brescia, Italy, from 10 to 17 April 2026. Organized by the Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics (DICATAM), the programme forms part of an internationalization initiative aimed at strengthening advanced research and higher education on the assessment, diagnosis and retrofitting of existing structures, with particular attention to masonry, reinforced concrete, prestressed reinforced concrete, and cultural heritage assets. The course will be delivered through an intensive one-week format combining lectures, seminars and workshops, and will be offered in Italian, Spanish and English.
The ASC is intended for participants from the Latin American universities partnering in the TNE project, in particular students enrolled in Master’s, PhD or postdoctoral programmes, as well as researchers and lecturers affiliated with those institutions, or candidates holding an equivalent qualification. Priority will be given to applicants from the fields of Engineering and Architecture. Participation requires in-person attendance, and the number of participants is limited to a maximum of six selected candidates.
Applications should be submitted preferably by 20 March 2026 to both fausto.minelli@unibs.it
Selection will be based on an overall evaluation of the submitted documentation. Merit will be assessed according to two main criteria: the academic or scientific profile of the candidate, worth up to 60 points, and the motivation letter, worth up to 40 points. For students, the academic evaluation will consider grade point average, regularity of studies and coherence between the candidate’s educational path and the contents of the ASC. For lecturers, the evaluation will focus on research output and teaching activity in relation to the topics addressed by the programme. The results will be published on the University of Brescia project websites and communicated by e-mail.
Applicants may also compete for the award of up to six scholarships. Each scholarship amounts to €2,500.00, granted as an all-inclusive contribution towards travel, accommodation, meals and other related expenses.Travel expenses will be advanced by the University of Brescia after selection, while the remaining amount will be disbursed upon the beneficiary’s arrival in Italy. Scholarships will be assigned by the Scientific Committee of the Advanced Skill Course in accordance with the merit criteria established in the call, and the Committee’s decision will be final.
From an academic perspective, the course is designed to develop advanced competences in the diagnosis, vulnerability assessment and mechanical characterization of existing structures and infrastructures; to provide updated knowledge on methods and tools for inspection, monitoring and structural modelling; to deepen criteria, techniques and materials for strengthening and retrofitting interventions, with particular attention to compatibility with cultural heritage; and to promote an integrated approach capable of combining structural, regulatory and conservation aspects in the definition of sustainable and respectful intervention strategies.
Beyond its scientific value, the ASC will be held in Brescia, a city of exceptional historical and architectural significance. Rich in monuments, urban heritage and architectural landmarks, Brescia offers an especially fitting setting for a course dedicated to the study, preservation and strengthening of existing structures and cultural heritage. Its strategic location also provides participants with the opportunity to discover many of Northern Italy’s most remarkable monumental, artistic and tourist destinations, making the academic experience even more valuable from both a cultural and international perspective.