Funded PhD Positions in Archaeology | Griffith University

About the Programme

Griffith University’s Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution (ARCHE) invites applications for several fully funded PhD positions exploring the frontiers of ancient DNA, human evolution, archaeology, and palaeontology. Under the supervision of leading researchers — Professor David Lambert, Associate Professor Julien Louys, and Dr Jayne Wilkins — these projects aim to uncover new insights into early human history, prehistoric environments, and technological innovation. From sequencing the genomes of ancient human remains to analysing Pliocene megafauna and developing advanced methods for stone tool analysis, these interdisciplinary PhD projects combine fieldwork, laboratory research, and quantitative analysis. Candidates will join a world-class research community working across Australia, Africa, and Southeast Asia, contributing to globally significant discoveries in human origins and environmental change.

Programme Details

Position: Fully-funded PhD Positions / Doctoral Researchers
Institution: Griffith University
Department/Faculty: Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution (ARCHE)
Supervisors:
- Professor David Lambert – Ancient DNA and Human Evolution
- Associate Professor Julien Louys – Megafauna Fossils and Palaeoecology
- Dr Jayne Wilkins – Stone Tool Functional Analysis and Stone Age Archaeology
Location: Queensland, Australia
Start Date (Anticipated): 2026 (Flexible)
Duration: 3–4 years
Funding: Fully funded scholarship covering tuition fees and annual living stipend (subject to eligibility)
Working Hours: Full-time
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as Archaeology, Anthropology, Genetics, or Palaeontology

Research Focus/Area

Ancient DNA and Proteomics: Whole-genome and proteome sequencing of ancient human specimens including Mungo Man (Willandra), Yidinji King (Cairns), Deep Skull (Borneo), and Bewah specimen (Malaysia) to understand Australasia’s early settlement. (Supervisor: Prof David Lambert)
Megafauna Fossils from the Pliocene of Australia: Study the 3.5-million-year-old fossils from Chinchilla Rifle Range, exploring taphonomy, taxonomy, and palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. (Supervisor: A/Prof Julien Louys)
New Methods in Stone Tool Functional Analysis: Develop innovative experimental and quantitative methods to identify tool use and human adaptation. (Supervisor: Dr Jayne Wilkins)
Stone Age Archaeology of Southern Africa: Investigate the Late Pleistocene record to reveal early Homo sapiens behaviour in savannah and desert regions. (Supervisor: Dr Jayne Wilkins)

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Archaeology, Anthropology, Genetics, Palaeontology, or Evolutionary Biology

Preferred Qualifications:

Prior research experience in laboratory or field-based archaeology
Strong academic record with publications or dissertation research in relevant topics
Knowledge of ancient DNA, lithic analysis, or palaeoenvironmental reconstruction
Proficiency in analytical tools, laboratory techniques, or statistical software
Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Key Features of the Programme

Access to advanced facilities for ancient DNA, proteomics, and archaeological analysis
Supervision from globally recognised scholars in human evolution and prehistory
Opportunities for international fieldwork in Australia, Southeast Asia, and Africa
Conference and research travel funding
Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and museum collections
Training in advanced laboratory, analytical, and data interpretation skills

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) directly to the potential supervisor most closely aligned with your research interests. Include all required documents listed below

Supervisor Contacts:

Ancient DNA – Professor David Lambert
📧 d.lambert@griffith.edu.au
Megafauna Fossils from the Pliocene of Australia – Associate Professor Julien Louys
📧 j.louys@griffith.edu.au
New Methods in Stone Tool Functional Analysis & Stone Age Archaeology – Dr Jayne Wilkins
📧 jayne.wilkins@griffith.edu.au

After initial discussion and supervisor approval, shortlisted candidates will be invited to prepare a detailed research proposal for formal submission through Griffith University’s Higher Degree by Research (HDR) online portal.

Required Documents: