The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is offering an archaeology researcher position focused on ceramic studies of the Khaybar oasis. The appointment examines materials from Late Antiquity to the late Islamic period, recovered through excavations and surveys conducted under the Islamic Khaybar Archaeological Project (IKAP).
The selected researcher will analyse ceramic assemblages from Khaybar in north-western Saudi Arabia and create a reference corpus for publication as a monograph. Working alongside archaeologists, specialists, and project members, the position combines material analysis, archaeological interpretation, scientific documentation, and scholarly outputs.
The research activities include typo-chronological assessment of ceramic remains, preparation of detailed reports, and contributions to academic publications. The role also involves training students in ceramological approaches and supporting the organisation of archaeological field missions.
As part of this international initiative, the researcher will join the Archéorient team within CNRS UMR 5133 in Ardèche, France. The appointment includes planned visits to Saudi Arabia, involving around four to six weeks of fieldwork in a hyperarid desert setting.
Position Details
- Position: Ceramological Study of the Khaybar Oasis from Late Antiquity to the Late Islamic Period
- Official Reference Number: UMR5133-DIAALB-001
- Institution: CNRS (National Centre for Scientific Research), France
- Department: Environments and Societies of the Ancient East (Archéorient – UMR 5133)
- Research Discipline(s): Archaeology, Islamic Archaeology, Ceramic Studies, Late Antique Archaeology
- Location: Berrias-et-Casteljau, Ardèche, France
- Job Type: Researcher on Fixed-Term Contract
- Contract Duration: 12 months
- Start Date: October 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary/Funding: €4,216–€4,567 gross per month depending on experience (5–10 years)
- Required Qualification: PhD in Archaeology or related discipline
About the Research Project
The Islamic Khaybar Archaeological Project (IKAP) investigates human occupation and environmental developments in the Khaybar oasis, located in western Saudi Arabia. The project began in 2025 and continues until 2028, focusing on creating new archaeological documentation for understanding the Islamic period.
Led by CNRS researcher S. McPhillips, the project is funded by the French Agency for the Development of AlUla (AFALULA) in partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), Saudi Arabia. The research brings together specialists studying the archaeological and historical development of the region.
Research Areas
The position covers research in:
- Ceramic studies and ceramology
- Islamic archaeology
- Late Antique archaeology
- Archaeology of the Near East
- Arabian Peninsula archaeology
- Archaeological documentation
- Ceramic typology and chronology
Eligibility / Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- PhD in Archaeology with relevant research experience in ceramic studies, Islamic archaeology, or related fields.
- Knowledge of Late Antique and Islamic archaeology of the Near East and Arabian Peninsula, including current ceramic research publications from the wider Islamic world.
- Practical experience in archaeological recording, site documentation, and fieldwork, preferably within the Middle East or Arabian Peninsula.
- Ability to conduct collaborative scientific studies using approaches such as petrography, residue analysis, and wear-mark analysis.
- Strong written and spoken English skills (minimum C1 level), with basic knowledge of spoken and written Arabic desirable.
- Experience preparing scientific publications for international peer-reviewed journals.
- Ability to train students or technicians and contribute effectively within an international research environment.
Key Responsibilities
The selected researcher will:
- Analyse and record ceramic materials recovered from Khaybar excavations and archaeological surveys, including typo-chronological studies of ceramic assemblages.
- Develop a reference corpus of ceramic remains from project findings for publication as part of the research programme.
- Prepare detailed scientific reports and contribute to academic outputs, including journal articles, conferences, and seminars.
- Support training activities for students and researchers in ceramic analysis methods.
- Assist with the planning and preparation of archaeological field missions in collaboration with the project team.
Compensation and Benefits
The position provides:
- A 12-month fixed-term research contract with CNRS.
- Monthly gross remuneration between €4,216 and €4,567, depending on professional experience.
- 44 annual leave and RTT days during the contract period.
- Transport support covering up to 75% of travel costs.
- A sustainable mobility allowance of up to €300.
- Support related to professional research activities and project participation.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their application through the official CNRS recruitment portal. Candidates should review the eligibility requirements and prepare the required documents before applying.
Required documents generally include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic qualifications and PhD details
- Research experience information
- Scientific publication record
- Supporting documents requested through the CNRS application portal
Important Dates
- Publication Date: July 2026
- Application Deadline: 18 August 2026, 11:59 PM
- Expected Start Date: 1 October 2026
Researchers interested in this opportunity should consult the official CNRS recruitment portal for detailed requirements and submit their application within the specified timeframe.
Researchers exploring additional opportunities in France can also discover fully funded postdoctoral fellowships and research positions in France for international scholars, covering a range of academic disciplines and career stages.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Fully Funded Postdoctoral Opportunities
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CNRS researcher position about?
The position focuses on studying ceramic remains from the Khaybar oasis, covering Late Antique and Islamic periods through archaeological analysis.
Where is the CNRS archaeology researcher position located?
The researcher will work at CNRS in Berrias-et-Casteljau, Ardèche, France, with field missions planned in Saudi Arabia.
What qualification is required for this role?
Applicants must hold a PhD in Archaeology and have relevant experience in Near Eastern or Arabian Peninsula archaeology.
What is the salary offered for this CNRS position?
The monthly gross salary ranges from €4,216 to €4,567 depending on professional experience.
Institutional Overview
The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is a public institution advancing fundamental studies across diverse academic disciplines including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and technology. Through specialised laboratories and international collaborations, it supports archaeological investigations, historical research, and interdisciplinary projects using fieldwork, laboratory methods, and scholarly publications. The organisation brings together experts from different areas to examine complex scientific questions and develop new understanding through evidence-based approaches. Its research networks provide opportunities for academic exchange and innovation while contributing to global knowledge in archaeology, heritage studies, and related fields. Through international collaborations and specialist research units, CNRS supports researchers working across archaeology, history, and interdisciplinary scientific fields.
Explore more archaeology research positions, postdoctoral opportunities, and academic vacancies worldwide through HigherJobz, connecting researchers with international career opportunities in archaeology and heritage studies.
