The CNRS offers a fully funded CNRS PhD Primate Evolution position at the PALEVOPRIM laboratory in Poitiers, focusing on primate fossil research within Plio-Pleistocene palaeontology. This position examines locomotor and dietary behaviours in southern African cercopithecids using fossil assemblages from the Cradle of Humankind. It integrates evolutionary anthropology, palaeoecology, and environmental science to advance research on human evolution through fossil interpretation across African contexts. The study applies imaging techniques and dental microwear analysis to reconstruct ecological adaptation patterns in extinct primate lineages.
The study focuses on the Sterkfontein fossil deposits, where extensive primate remains provide key evidence for fossil primate research and early hominin evolutionary studies. Non-invasive imaging is used to analyse skeletal morphology and bone structure linked to locomotor behaviour. Dietary reconstruction is conducted through dental microwear analysis combined with ecological proxies, supporting interpretation of ancient feeding strategies. These methods contribute to palaeoecological reconstruction and biodiversity pattern analysis across southern African fossil ecosystems.
The PhD integrates comparative anatomy, statistical modelling, and R programming to evaluate variation in cercopithecid assemblages. Local fossil data from Sterkfontein are compared with regional datasets to examine evolutionary change in locomotor and dietary strategies. This analytical framework supports human evolutionary studies and strengthens methodological approaches in palaeontology and archaeological science. The study also enhances understanding of species adaptation within changing Plio-Pleistocene environments.
The research contributes to human evolution studies by examining primate fossil evidence within broader ecological and evolutionary systems. It supports reconstruction of palaeohabitats and functional behaviours in extinct primate lineages. The project advances understanding of locomotor evolution, dietary ecology, and species interactions, strengthening interdisciplinary research in palaeontology, primate fossil studies, and environmental science.
Programme Overview
- Position: PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: CNRS
- Department: PALEVOPRIM Laboratory (UMR 7262), University of Poitiers
- Research Group: ReVol Project – Primate Evolution and Fossil Systems
- Location: Poitiers, France (field missions in South Africa)
- Duration: 36 months (3 years)
- Start Date: November 2026
- Funding: Minimum €2,300 gross monthly salary under CNRS doctoral contract
- Required Qualification: Master’s degree in palaeontology, anthropology, biology, or related discipline
Research Focus
The research focuses on key scientific themes related to primate evolution and fossil interpretation within Plio-Pleistocene contexts.
- Primate fossil evolution and Plio-Pleistocene palaeontology
- Locomotor behaviour and skeletal functional morphology
- Dental microwear and dietary ecology reconstruction
- Palaeoecology and fossil biodiversity patterns
- Evolutionary anthropology and primate adaptation systems
- Cradle of Humankind fossil primate research
Eligibility / Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in palaeontology, anthropology, biology, or related field
- Interest in primate evolution and fossil analysis
- Ability to participate in international field missions
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in imaging techniques or micro-wear analysis
- Background in functional anatomy or evolutionary biology
- Familiarity with fossil primate research
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct locomotor analysis using non-invasive imaging techniques
- Perform dental micro-wear analysis for dietary reconstruction
- Analyse fossil cercopithecid skeletal variation
- Reconstruct palaeohabitats across southern African sites
- Integrate ecological indicators at multiple geographic scales
- Participate in field missions and laboratory research
Constraints and Fieldwork Requirements
The candidate will be required to participate in multiple research missions in South Africa. These missions involve field-based fossil data collection, site documentation, and collaboration with international research teams working in Plio-Pleistocene palaeontological contexts.
Compensation and Benefits
- Remuneration: Minimum €2,300 per month (gross)
- Annual leave: 44 days including RTT
- Telework: TT practice and compensation applicable under institutional policy
- Transportation: 75% travel cost coverage plus sustainable mobility package up to €300
Application Process
Candidates are required to submit a complete academic application for evaluation under CNRS doctoral recruitment procedures.
Required documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Research statement (if requested)
- References or recommendation letters
Why This Opportunity Matters
This PhD offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of:
- Primate evolution research
- Palaeontology and fossil analysis
- Human origins studies
- Functional morphology and ecological reconstruction
It provides advanced training, international collaboration, and exposure to high-impact scientific research and publications.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 1 July 2026
- Application Deadline: 22 July 2026 (23:59 UTC)
- Interview Period: To be announced
- Expected Start Date: November 2026
Applications are currently open and expected to be highly competitive due to limited doctoral positions in evolutionary anthropology and fossil primate research.
👉 Early submission is strongly recommended.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Palaeontology jobs
- Human evolution research positions
- Palaeoenvironmental Studies jobs
- Academic positions in France
- Fully funded PhD opportunities
- Global academic scholarships and research jobs
Institutional Overview
The CNRS – National Centre for Scientific Research is France’s leading public research institution, supporting multidisciplinary scientific advancement across natural sciences and humanities. It collaborates with universities and laboratories to conduct high-impact research in evolutionary biology, environmental science, and archaeology. The PALEVOPRIM unit at the University of Poitiers specialises in palaeontology, primatology, and evolutionary studies, combining fossil analysis, laboratory research, and computational modelling to understand long-term biological evolution and environmental change in human ancestry research.
Discover more high-ranking academic PhD opportunities in anthropology, palaeontology, evolutionary biology, and human origins research through HigherJobz.com, your source for verified international research careers and fully funded doctoral programmes.
