The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Archaeobotany within the Archaeology of the Americas Joint Research Unit (ArchAm) in Paris, France. This five-month fully funded postdoctoral position begins in September 2026, and applications close on 29 July 2026. The appointment supports the ERANKUTI research project, which investigates the development of pastoralism in sixteenth-century Michoacán through archaeobotanical research.
The successful researcher will contribute to the ERANKUTI project by developing archaeobotanical methods for identifying starch grains preserved in archaeological substrates. The research focuses on recognising European and local plant species associated with historical livestock feeding while integrating archaeological evidence with current and historical animal husbandry studies conducted by project collaborators in France and Mexico.
Alongside these activities, the position combines laboratory-based archaeobotanical analysis with interdisciplinary collaboration across archaeology, archaeobotany, and historical pastoralism. The researcher will communicate findings during project meetings, contribute to scientific outputs, and strengthen archaeobotanical interpretations through discussions with specialists working on breeding practices and archaeological evidence.
As a result, this opportunity suits researchers with established expertise in starch grain analysis and archaeobotany who wish to contribute to an international archaeological research project. The appointment offers an opportunity to work within one of France’s leading research organisations while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team investigating the archaeology of the Americas and historical plant use.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher in Archaeobotany
- Institution: CNRS (French National Centre for Scientific Research), France
- Department: Archaeology of the Americas Joint Research Unit (ArchAm)
- Research Discipline(s): Archaeobotany, Archaeology of the Americas
- Location: Paris, France
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Researcher (Fixed-term Contract)
- Contract Duration: 5 months
- Start Date: September 2026 (1 September 2026)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary/Funding: €4,341.70–€4,526.02 gross per month
- Required Qualification: PhD in Archaeobotany
- Funding Status: Fully Funded Paid Position
Discover more fully funded postdoctoral fellowships in France for international scholars.
About the ERANKUTI Research Project
The ERANKUTI research project investigates the development of pastoralism in sixteenth-century Michoacán by examining archaeobotanical evidence associated with historical livestock feeding. The project combines starch grain analysis with archaeological and historical research to identify European and local plant species while exploring interactions between human communities, agricultural practices, and changing environments. The project is funded by the Fyssen Foundation and brings together researchers from France and Mexico through interdisciplinary collaboration.
Research Area
The CNRS Postdoctoral Researcher in Archaeobotany position focuses on investigating historical plant use and the development of pastoralism through integrated archaeobotanical research. Research activities include:
- Archaeobotany
- Starch grain analysis
- Historical pastoralism
- Plant identification in archaeological contexts
- Human–environment interactions
Eligibility / Qualifications
To be considered for the CNRS Postdoctoral Researcher in Archaeobotany position, applicants must meet the following qualifications:
- PhD in Archaeobotany.
- Demonstrated experience in starch grain analysis.
- Proven knowledge of archaeobotanical research involving Europe and the Americas.
- Ability to identify archaeological plant remains using appropriate reference collections.
- Experience working independently within collaborative research environments.
- Strong analytical, communication, and scientific presentation skills.
Key Responsibilities
The successful applicant will:
- Develop archaeobotanical methods for identifying starch grains from different archaeological substrates.
- Conduct starch grain analysis to identify European and indigenous plant species.
- Collaborate with ERANKUTI researchers specialising in historical and contemporary breeding practices.
- Compare archaeobotanical findings with archaeological evidence and project datasets.
- Present research findings during team meetings and scientific activities.
- Contribute to the analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of project results.
Funding and Benefits
This fully funded postdoctoral position at CNRS, France provides competitive financial support and employment benefits for eligible researchers.
- Fully funded postdoctoral contract for 5 months.
- Gross monthly salary: €4,341.70–€4,526.02.
- 44 days of annual leave and RTT.
- 75% reimbursement of public transport costs.
- Sustainable mobility allowance of up to €300.
- Teleworking arrangements in accordance with CNRS policies.
- Shared research workspace at the Archaeology of the Americas Joint Research Unit (ArchAm) in Paris.
- Opportunity to collaborate with an international research team through the ERANKUTI archaeobotany project in France and Mexico.
Application Process
Applications should be submitted through the CNRS recruitment portal before the published deadline. Candidates should ensure all required documentation is complete before submitting their application.
Required documents include:
- Completed online application
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- PhD certificate or equivalent qualification
- Any additional supporting documents requested through the recruitment portal
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Currently Open
- Application Deadline: 29 July 2026, 11:59 PM
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: 1 September 2026
Applications remain open for a limited period, and eligible candidates should submit all required documents before 29 July 2026.
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Institutional Overview
The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is France’s national public research organisation supporting fundamental research across a broad range of scientific disciplines. The Archaeology of the Americas Joint Research Unit (ArchAm) conducts research exploring past societies through interdisciplinary archaeological approaches. The successful researcher will join the ERANKUTI project, funded by the Fyssen Foundation, and work alongside an international team based in France and Mexico. The project combines archaeobotany, archaeology, and historical evidence to investigate the development of pastoralism and plant use during the sixteenth century, encouraging collaboration across complementary areas of archaeological research.
Looking for more opportunities? Explore our guide to Top Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowships and Research Positions in France for International Scholars.
Researchers interested in postdoctoral archaeology jobs, archaeobotany positions, and fully funded academic opportunities can explore additional international academic vacancies on HigherJobz.
