Fully Funded PhD in Mercury Isotope Research, France

About the Program

Aix-Marseille University’s Mediterranean Laboratory of Europe-Africa Prehistory (LAMPEA) is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on mercury isotope research to explore prehistoric lifestyles. This exciting opportunity is part of the MIMBA project, an interdisciplinary initiative combining archaeology, anthropology, and isotopic biogeochemistry.

The doctoral research will investigate how mercury isotopes in human collagen can reveal information on diet (such as fish consumption), cultural practices (like make-up use), and professional activities (including dyeing and metallurgy) in ancient populations. Working closely with Geoscience Environment Toulouse (GET), the PhD student will develop protocols for analysing bio-archaeological materials. This unique position offers hands-on experience in advanced laboratory work, field collaboration, and cutting-edge archaeological science.

Program Details

Position: Fully funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
Institution: Aix-Marseille University
Department/Faculty: Mediterranean Laboratory of Europe-Africa Prehistory (LAMPEA)
Supervisor: Co-supervised by a thesis director and a co-thesis director
Location: Aix-en-Provence, France (with stays in Toulouse for certain protocols)
Start Date (Anticipated): 1 October 2025
Duration: 3 years (36 months)
Funding: Fully funded, with a minimum gross monthly remuneration of €2,200
Working Hours (if applicable): Full-time
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, geochemistry, or a related discipline.

Research Focus/Area

Archaeology
Anthropology
Isotopic Biogeochemistry

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree completed before the start date
Strong interest in interdisciplinary archaeological science

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with isotopic analysis or bioarchaeology
Excellent laboratory and analytical skills
Ability to work collaboratively in diverse research teams

Key Features of the Program

Funded by the CNRS Mission for Interdisciplinarity (MITI) under Project 80 | PRIME MIMBA
Based at LAMPEA with collaboration at Geoscience Environment Toulouse (GET)
Annual thesis committee meetings to support research progress
Access to cutting-edge analytical facilities and protocols
Embedded in a vibrant international research community