CNRS is offering a full-time PhD position in mechanical engineering, digital sciences, architectural heritage and archaeology in Marseille, France. The doctoral researcher will join the KARMA project, an interdisciplinary study of the eastern pier of the 9th pylon at Karnak in Egypt. The project combines archaeological research, digital surveying, physical measurements and mechanical modelling to support future restoration planning. The position is expected to start on 1 November 2026.
The PhD candidate will work across archaeology, heritage science, digital surveying, physical measurements and mechanical simulation. The research requires travel between participating laboratories and field assignments at the Karnak archaeological site in Egypt.
The researcher will be based at MAP and LMA in Marseille, with workspace provided at both laboratories. Field campaigns will involve collecting geometric and physical information to document the monument and support its assessment.
The doctoral work will also develop methods for integrating different datasets within a shared three-dimensional framework. These methods will support interpretation by specialists involved in the interdisciplinary KARMA project.
Applicants with a BAC+5 / Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field and an interest in fieldwork and laboratory-based research are eligible to apply for this PhD position.
Programme Overview
- Position: PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher
- Official Reference Number: UPR2002-ANTPAM-008
- Institution: CNRS, France
- Department: Models and Simulations for Architecture and Heritage
- Research Group: KARMA Project
- Location: Marseille 09, Bouches-du-Rhône, France
- Duration: 36 months
- Start Date: 1 November 2026
- Funding: Minimum remuneration of €2,300 per month
- Required Degree: BAC+5 / Master’s degree or equivalent
- Contract: Fixed-term PhD student
- Working Time: Full-time
- Workplace: 13402 Marseille 09
Research Focus
- Archaeological and architectural heritage
- Structural and mechanical analysis
- Photogrammetry and lasergrammetry
- Acoustic and ultrasound measurements
- Ground-penetrating radar
- 3D geometric data processing
- Point-cloud integration
- Mechanical modelling
- Discrete element methods
- Restoration and reconstruction
Eligibility and Qualifications
The required qualifications and eligibility criteria for this position are:
- BAC+5 / Master’s degree or equivalent
- Ability to undertake doctoral research in the relevant field
- Willingness to participate in international field missions
- Capacity to work across archaeology, heritage and engineering disciplines
Research Responsibilities
The PhD student will undertake fieldwork, data integration and mechanical modelling as part of the KARMA research programme.
- Participate in survey campaigns at Luxor-Karnak, Egypt.
- Collect geometric data through photogrammetry and lasergrammetry.
- Collect physical data using acoustics, ultrasound and ground-penetrating radar.
- Organise and spatialise different datasets within a common 3D framework.
- Develop mechanical models using field data and discrete element methods.
- Simulate intervention scenarios for dismantling, recessing and consolidation operations.
Funding and Benefits
The CNRS vacancy provides a fixed-term doctoral contract with stated remuneration and employment benefits.
- Monthly remuneration: Minimum €2,300
- Contract duration: 36 months
- Annual leave and RTT: 44 days
- Transport: 75% of transport costs covered
- Sustainable mobility allowance: Up to €300
- International missions: Fieldwork in Egypt is required
- Remote working: Teleworking practice and compensation are available as specified by CNRS
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the official CNRS recruitment website before the stated closing time. Candidates should consult the official vacancy for complete application instructions and any required materials.
Required documents:
- The vacancy does not specify the required application documents in the supplied source.
- Candidates should check the official CNRS application page for current requirements.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 18 August 2026
- Application Deadline: 7 September 2026, 23:59 UTC
- Expected Start Date: 1 November 2026
Eligible candidates should review the official CNRS vacancy and complete their application before the 7 September 2026, 23:59 UTC deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PhD position at CNRS about?
The PhD focuses on mechanical engineering, digital sciences, architectural heritage and archaeology within the KARMA project at Karnak, Egypt.
Where is this PhD position based?
The position is based in Marseille, France, at the Models and Simulations for Architecture and Heritage unit.
How long is the PhD contract?
The position is a 36-month fixed-term PhD contract, starting on 1 November 2026.
What is the salary for this PhD?
The position offers a minimum remuneration of €2,300 per month.
What qualifications are required?
Applicants should hold a BAC+5 or Master’s degree relevant to the doctoral research.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 7 September 2026 at 11:59 PM. Applications should be submitted through the official CNRS Job Portal.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeology Jobs Worldwide
- French University Jobs
- Architectural History Opportunities
- Fully Funded PhD Positions
- Digital Archaeology Research Jobs
Institutional Overview
CNRS, the French National Centre for Scientific Research, is a major organisation for fundamental research across scientific disciplines. Its multidisciplinary structure supports collaboration between different fields to address major contemporary challenges. This doctoral position is hosted by the Models and Simulations for Architecture and Heritage unit in Marseille. The KARMA project brings together archaeological and heritage expertise, digital surveys, physical measurements, heritage materials characterisation, and mechanical modelling. Through this interdisciplinary structure, the project examines the Karnak monument using complementary research methods while supporting future restoration and reconstruction work.
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