Applications are now open for a fully funded PhD in Geochronology at the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) in France. Hosted by the Archéosciences-Bordeaux unit and supported through the ANR EXHUM programme, this position involves experimental work at the IPREM laboratory in Pau. Applications close on 13 July 2026, with the appointment beginning in October 2026.
This PhD investigates new approaches to dating Pleistocene teeth using uranium-series disequilibrium, combining laser ablation with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The successful candidate will develop specialist analytical skills while contributing to interdisciplinary studies spanning archaeology, anthropology, environmental science, and Earth science.
The successful applicant will divide experimental activities between facilities in Pau and Pessac, working alongside specialists from both partner institutions. Regular travel between the two locations forms part of the appointment and provides experience within a collaborative scientific environment using advanced analytical equipment.
Applicants holding a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline are encouraged to apply. The appointment includes a minimum monthly salary of €2,300, 44 days of annual leave and RTT, 75% reimbursement of public transport costs, and a sustainable mobility allowance of up to €300.
Programme Overview
The following details summarise the doctoral research opportunity.
- Position: PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: CNRS – National Centre for Scientific Research
- Department: Archéosciences-Bordeaux : Matériaux, Temps, Images et Sociétés
- Research Programme: ANR EXHUM
- Location: Pessac and Pau, France
- Contract: Temporary, Full-time (35 hours/week)
- Start Date: October 2026
- Funding: Fully funded position
- Salary: Minimum €2,300 per month
- Required Qualification: Master’s degree or equivalent
Research Focus
This fully funded PhD in Geochronology at CNRS, France, combines analytical techniques with interdisciplinary research across archaeology and Earth sciences, focusing on the following areas:
- Geochronology and uranium-series disequilibrium dating
- Pleistocene archaeology and archaeological science
- Laser ablation and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
- Anthropology and environmental science
Eligibility / Qualifications
Applicants should demonstrate suitable academic preparation for interdisciplinary doctoral research in geochronology and archaeological science.
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s degree or equivalent
- Academic background in History, Anthropology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
- Basic knowledge of French
- Eligibility to undertake doctoral research
Preferred Qualifications
- Interest in archaeological science and geochronology
- Motivation to work across multiple research laboratories
- Ability to undertake experimental laboratory research
- Interest in interdisciplinary scientific collaboration
Key Responsibilities
The successful doctoral researcher will contribute to the ANR EXHUM project through the following activities.
- Analyse Pleistocene teeth using uranium-series dating methods.
- Perform laser ablation measurements.
- Apply ICP-MS techniques for chronological analysis.
- Complete experimental work in Pau and Pessac.
- Work with partner teams across participating institutes.
- Support scientific activities associated with the ANR EXHUM programme.
Salary and Benefits
The successful candidate will receive:
- Working hours: 35 hours per week
- Minimum salary: €2,300 per month
- Annual leave and RTT: 44 days
- Public transport reimbursement: 75% of eligible costs
- Sustainable mobility allowance: Up to €300
Application Process
Applications should be submitted through the official CNRS recruitment portal before the published deadline.
Required Documents
- Completed online application
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Master’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Any additional documents requested through the application portal
Why This Opportunity Matters
This PhD brings together expertise from multiple disciplines, offering opportunities to work across:
- Geochronology and isotope dating
- Archaeological science and Pleistocene research
- Anthropology and environmental science
- Advanced laboratory analysis using laser ablation and ICP-MS
The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience with specialised analytical techniques while collaborating across partner laboratories in Pessac and Pau as part of the ANR EXHUM project.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Open now
- Application Deadline: 13 July 2026 (23:59 UTC)
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
Apply early to maximise your chances, as applications close on 13 July 2026 and late submissions are unlikely to be considered.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeological Science Doctoral Opportunities
- Anthropology PhD Positions
- Fully Funded Research Programmes in France
- Fully Funded Scholarships for Global Scholars
- International PhD Positions
Institutional Overview
The CNRS (National Centre for Scientific Research) is France’s leading public research organisation, supporting research across science, engineering, the humanities, and social sciences. This doctoral position is hosted by the Archéosciences-Bordeaux laboratory, a joint research unit specialising in archaeology, materials, chronology, and heritage studies. As part of the ANR EXHUM project, the successful candidate will also conduct experimental research at the IPREM laboratory in Pau, which provides advanced analytical facilities for geochronology and geochemistry. This collaboration allows doctoral researchers to gain practical laboratory experience while working with established research teams on interdisciplinary scientific projects.
Explore more fully funded PhD positions, doctoral research opportunities, archaeology PhD scholarships, geoscience research vacancies, environmental science doctoral programmes, and European academic jobs on HigherJobz.com to discover similar international research opportunities.
