The CNRS – National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD in Historical Ecology and Archaeology in Amiens, France, starting in October 2026. This interdisciplinary PhD combines historical ecology, archaeology, medieval history, environmental history, and forest socio-ecological systems to investigate long-term forest landscape dynamics through participatory research approaches.
The doctoral researcher will contribute to the PEPR FORESTT programme, which examines resilience and adaptation within forest socio-ecological systems using historical and archaeological evidence. The research integrates territorial foresight, Living Lab methodologies, and collaborative scientific approaches to support innovative research on environmental change. The successful candidate will work closely with experienced supervisors while participating in an interdisciplinary research network that includes specialists from archaeology, environmental history, and socio-ecological research.
Building upon this interdisciplinary framework, the project combines historical sources, archaeological evidence, and participatory science to investigate long-term landscape transformations. The successful applicant will contribute to research addressing forest resilience through innovative methodologies while benefiting from structured doctoral supervision, collaborative research activities, and regular academic monitoring throughout the programme.
Finally, throughout the doctoral programme, the researcher will engage with interdisciplinary teams across multiple French research institutions, supporting collaborative research within the FORESTT-HUB. The position offers advanced training in historical ecology, archaeological research, and environmental history while contributing to ongoing research examining sustainable forest socio-ecological systems.
Programme Overview
- Position: PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: CNRS – National Centre for Scientific Research, France
- Department: Travaux et Recherches archéologiques sur les cultures, les espaces et les sociétés (TRACES)
- Faculty: Not specified
- Research Group: PEPR FORESTT Programme / FORESTT-HUB
- Supervisors:
- Sylvain Burri
- Jérôme Buridant
- Raphaël Lachello
- Location: Amiens, France
- Duration: Not specified
- Start Date: October 2026
- Funding: Fully funded doctoral position under the PEPR FORESTT Programme
- Required Degree: Master’s degree or equivalent
Research Focus
This Fully Funded Historical Ecology & Archaeology PhD Will Focus On:
- Historical Ecology and Environmental History
- Archaeology and Medieval History
- Forest Socio-Ecological Systems
- Forest Landscape Dynamics
- Territorial Foresight and Futures Studies
- Living Lab and Participatory Science
- Environmental Change and Forest Resilience
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants should demonstrate the following academic qualifications.
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s degree or equivalent
- Academic background in History, Archaeology, or Medieval History
- Basic knowledge of French
- Interest in interdisciplinary environmental research
Preferred Qualifications
- Interest in historical ecology
- Knowledge of environmental history
- Ability to work within collaborative research teams
- Motivation for interdisciplinary doctoral research
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Conduct doctoral research within the PEPR FORESTT programme
- Investigate long-term forest landscape dynamics
- Apply Living Lab and participatory science methodologies
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams
- Participate in doctoral monitoring activities
- Contribute to research on forest socio-ecological resilience
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the official CNRS recruitment portal before the closing deadline.
Applicants should prepare:
- Completed online application
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Master’s degree certificate or equivalent
- Academic transcripts
- Supporting documents requested through the application portal
Why This Opportunity Matters
This PhD offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of:
- Historical Ecology
- Archaeology
- Medieval History
- Forest Socio-Ecological Systems
It provides advanced training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and opportunities to contribute to research addressing long-term environmental change through archaeological and historical perspectives.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 4 July 2026
- Application Deadline: 24 July 2026 (23:59 UTC)
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
Applications are open now. Secure your place in this interdisciplinary, fully funded PhD before the closing date.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Fully Funded Archaeology PhD Opportunities Worldwide
- History Research Positions Worldwide
- Medieval History Doctoral Scholarships
- Fully Funded Humanities PhD Programmes
Institutional Overview
The CNRS – National Centre for Scientific Research is France’s leading public research organisation, supporting scientific research across humanities, archaeology, environmental sciences, and natural sciences. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, CNRS brings together researchers from universities and specialised research centres to address complex scientific questions. Its research programmes encourage international cooperation, innovative methodologies, and high-quality doctoral training. The organisation supports doctoral researchers through structured supervision, collaborative research environments, and access to established academic networks. This project is hosted within the TRACES research unit and contributes to national research priorities examining environmental resilience and historical landscape change.
Explore more fully funded PhD positions, archaeology jobs, environmental research opportunities, and academic careers on HigherJobz to discover similar international doctoral vacancies and research funding opportunities.


