6 Fully Funded PhD Positions in Prehistoric Archaeology IPHES

About the Program

IPHES-CERCA invites applications for 6 fully funded PhD positions in Prehistoric Archaeology and Human Paleoecology under its María de Maeztu Centre of Excellence programme. These 6 predoctoral PhD positions are aligned with ten strategic priority research lines, with one doctoral researcher appointed per selected line. Each PhD candidate will develop an original doctoral research project supervised by a principal investigator at IPHES-CERCA, focusing on human evolution, paleoenvironmental dynamics, and prehistoric behaviour. The four-year fully funded PhD programme, based in Tarragona, Spain, offers advanced research training, international mobility, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strong academic mentoring within a globally recognised research environment.

Program Details

Position: Fully funded PhD Position / Predoctoral Researcher
Institution: Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social (IPHES-CERCA)
Department/Faculty: María de Maeztu Programme – Strategic Priority Research Lines
Supervisor: Assigned Principal Investigator (one per research line)
Location: Tarragona, Spain
Start Date (Anticipated): 2026
Duration: 4 years
No. of PhD Positions: 6
Funding: Full funding, including salary, PhD enrolment fees, and mobility allowance
Working Hours: Full-time doctoral research contract
Required Degree/Diploma: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology, Biology, or a closely related discipline.

Research Focus / Area

Prehistoric Archaeology and Human Evolution
Human Paleoecology and Environmental Change
Quaternary Studies and Prehistory
Interdisciplinary Archaeological Science Methods

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline
Eligibility for doctoral enrolment at Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV) for the 2026–2027 academic year

Preferred Qualifications

Previous research experience
Strong academic performance
International exposure or mobility experience
Effective scientific communication skills

Key Features of the Program

Structured doctoral training within a centre of excellence
International research stays and global collaboration
Conference and mobility funding
Access to advanced laboratory and analytical facilities
Mentoring and supervision through the María de Maeztu excellence framework