About the Program
IPHES-CERCA invites applications for a fully-funded PhD in Human Paleoecology and Prehistoric Rodent Studies titled “From extirpation to new opportunities: comparative spatio-temporal analysis and multi-scenario modelling based on future climate variables (EX2OPP)” at the Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social (IPHES-CERCA). This doctoral position focuses on the study of rodents of the genus Arvicola in MIS 11 archaeological sites such as Gran Dolina and Galería, aiming to reconstruct past climate conditions and model potential species distributions. The project will be supervised by Dr. Juan Manuel López-García and Dr. Ana Fagoaga and aligns with IPHES-CERCA’s research in human evolution, prehistoric ecosystems, and interdisciplinary methods. The research duration is four years and is based in Tarragona, Spain, with an expected start date of June 2026. Candidates will benefit from advanced laboratory facilities, fieldwork experience, international collaboration, and professional academic development.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social (IPHES-CERCA)
- Department/Faculty: Human Paleoecology and Social Evolution
- Supervisor: Dr. Juan Manuel López-García & Dr. Ana Fagoaga
- Location: Tarragona, Spain
- Start Date (Anticipated): June 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Full predoctoral FPI contract with tuition support up to €7,000 for research stays and advanced training
- Working Hours: 40 hours/week
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree or equivalent in Archaeology, Anthropology, Biology, Geology, or related disciplines
Research Focus/Area
- Human Paleoecology
- Prehistoric Rodent Studies (Genus Arvicola)
- Quaternary and Prehistory
- Spatio-temporal analysis and climate modeling
- Fieldwork in MIS 11 archaeological sites
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant disciplines
- Not currently holding a PhD or enrolled in PhD studies
- Eligibility for URV PhD enrolment for 2026–2027
- Good proficiency in English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in prehistoric fauna or paleoecology
- Strong academic record including publications, presentations, or internships
- Knowledge of data analysis, GIS, and modeling techniques
Key Features of the Program
- Access to specialised laboratories and fieldwork sites
- Participation in national and international conferences
- Training in scientific techniques, open science, and research integrity
- Opportunities for short-term international research stays
- Integration into a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary research team
Application Process
How to Apply:
Send an email to jobs@iphes.cat with the subject line: IPHES_FPI_[SURNAME_NAME]
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter (maximum 2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 4 pages, following CVA English or Spanish model)
- Academic transcripts (degree and master’s)
- Documentation supporting essential requirements and merits
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Open
- Application Deadline: 1 March 2026
- Interviews (if applicable): After document screening
Where to Apply
- University Website: Iphes
- Official Notification: IPHES-CERCA Careers Page
- Application Portal: Apply via email to jobs@iphes.cat
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