The CNRS is offering a 36-month PhD opportunity in archaeological geophysics in Lyon, France, focused on applying geophysical methods to the study of Roman urbanism. The research targets the ancient city of Lugdunum des Convènes (Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges), combining advanced geophysical survey methods with spatial analysis to reconstruct buried urban structures and understand long-term settlement evolution.
The project integrates ground-penetrating radar (GPR), magnetic, electrical, and electromagnetic survey techniques with GIS-based spatial modelling. The selected PhD candidate will analyse large geophysical datasets to identify subsurface features, reconstruct Roman urban layouts, and compare results with excavation records and historical cartography. A key objective is to refine interpretations of urban morphology through multi-source archaeological data integration.
Working within leading French research environments, the doctoral researcher will contribute to collaborative projects hosted by institutions including Université Lumière Lyon 2 and associated research units such as Archéorient and AOROC. Fieldwork will be conducted at Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, alongside data processing and interpretation in laboratory settings in Lyon and Paris. The role also involves contributing to methodological developments in archaeomatics, including the evaluation of automated and AI-assisted detection approaches for geophysical datasets.
Programme Overview
- Position: PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Université Lumière Lyon 2, France
- Department: Environnements et sociétés de l’orient ancien
- Research Group: Archéorient Laboratory (co-supervision with AOROC Laboratory)
- Location: Lyon, France
- Duration: 36 months
- Start Date: October 2026
- Funding: Doctoral contract available (funding amount not stated)
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s degree or equivalent
Research Area
- Applied Geophysics for Archaeology
- Archaeology
- Medieval History
- Urban Morphology
- Archaeomatics
- GIS and Spatial Analysis
Eligibility / Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Academic background in archaeology and archaeomatics
- Strong knowledge of geophysics applied to archaeology
- Good command of GIS software
- Knowledge of databases
- Basic knowledge of French
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in analysing and interpreting geophysical data
- Knowledge of ground-penetrating radar data analysis
- Fieldwork experience in archaeology or geophysical survey
- Strong organisational skills and autonomy
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct geophysical analysis of archaeological datasets
- Participate in fieldwork campaigns at Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges
- Analyse urban morphology and historical spatial development
- Compare geophysical findings with excavation data and maps
- Evaluate artificial intelligence methods for data detection
- Process and interpret radar, magnetic, electrical, and electromagnetic survey data
Application Process
Candidates must apply through the official CNRS recruitment portal before the deadline. The selection process follows the conditions outlined in the official doctoral vacancy.
Required Documents
- Completed online application
- Academic qualification details
- Supporting research-related documents as requested in the application portal
Why This PhD Matters
This doctoral opportunity sits at the intersection of archaeology, geophysics, and computational spatial analysis. It offers advanced training in:
- Archaeological prospection using multi-method geophysics
- GIS-based reconstruction of ancient urban landscapes
- Data-driven interpretation of cultural heritage sites
- Emerging AI applications in archaeological research
The project provides direct access to active field campaigns and high-level interdisciplinary research networks across France, making it a strong opportunity for candidates aiming for academic or research careers in archaeological science.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 29 May 2026
- Application Deadline: 18 June 2026 (23:59 UTC)
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
The application deadline is approaching, so applicants should submit materials before 18 June 2026.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeology research positions and academic career opportunities
- International university roles in the humanities and social sciences
- Academic jobs and research recruitment in French universities
- Higher education positions across European universities
- Fully funded PhD scholarships and doctoral research positions
Institutional Overview
CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) is France’s leading public research organisation and one of the largest fundamental science institutions in the world. It conducts and supports multidisciplinary research across fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. CNRS operates through a wide network of laboratories in partnership with universities and research institutes, playing a central role in advancing scientific innovation, international collaboration, and high-impact academic research across Europe and globally.
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