About the PhD Position
The University of Montpellier invites applications for a Fully Funded PhD in paleoenvironmental dynamics, ecology, and Mediterranean landscape studies in Montpellier, France. This doctoral project investigates Holocene environmental change, human migration, and coastal ecosystem transformation across continental and island systems, specifically the Albufera of Valencia and Ses Feixes in Ibiza.
The research examines the evolution of socio-environmental dynamics and the formation of Mediterranean cultural landscapes over the last 8,000 years. It uses a comparative approach between the two coastal areas to analyse how human migration, colonisation, agro-pastoral practices, and fire management have shaped biodiversity, ecosystems, and coastal landscapes, highlighting differences between island and continental contexts.
By combining multi-proxy analyses—pollen, non-pollen palynomorphs, and microcharcoal—with archaeopalynological studies, and integrating the results with archaeobotanical, archaeohistorical, and palaeoclimatic datasets, the research aims to:
- Reconstruct changes in vegetation and coastal landscapes in relation to climate and human activity.
- Assess the role of prehistoric human migrations and historical settlements in introducing new crops and transforming Mediterranean coastal ecosystems.
- Compare vegetation and cultural landscape formation between island and continental areas.
This project offers a long-term perspective on the resilience of Mediterranean ecosystems and provides critical insights for addressing contemporary conservation challenges amid climate change and growing anthropogenic pressures.
This full-time, Fully Funded PhD position begins in October 2026 under the GAIA Competition framework. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in archaeology, evolutionary ecology, or Earth sciences, with strong knowledge of palynology or palaeobotany. The position includes research funding, access to field sites, laboratories, and international collaboration networks. The programme also supports advanced training, high-impact publications, professional development, and hands-on field research, providing a unique pathway for an academic career in environmental science, archaeology, and Mediterranean landscape studies.
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Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Paleoenvironmental Dynamics
- Position type: Temporary
- Institution: University of Montpellier, France
- Department: Environmental Science / Ecology
- Research Group: Interdisciplinary Paleoenvironmental Research Team
- Supervisor: Not specified
- Location: Montpellier
- Country: France
- Duration: 3 years (typical PhD duration)
- Start Date: October 2026
- Funding: Fully Funded under the GAIA Competition
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Number of Positions: 1
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s in Archaeology, Ecology, or Earth Sciences
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Research Area
- Paleoenvironmental Science
- Ecology and Environmental Change
- Archaeology and Prehistory
- Palynology and Palaeobotany
- Climate Change Studies
- Mediterranean Landscape Evolution
- Human–Environment Interactions
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Archaeology, Ecology, or Earth Sciences
- Knowledge of palynology or palaeobotany
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
- Strong research, writing, and analytical skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Basic knowledge of Spanish
- Experience in interdisciplinary research
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Interest in climate and environmental studies
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Key Responsibilities
- Conduct paleoenvironmental and ecological data analysis
- Perform pollen and microcharcoal analyses
- Integrate archaeological and climate datasets
- Publish research findings in academic journals
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the official portal.
Required Documents:
- CV / Resume
- Academic transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Proof of English proficiency
- Reference letters
Important Dates
- Application open: 2 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 6 May 2026 (22:00 UTC)
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
Where to Apply
- University / Institute Website: University – University of Montpellier
- Project Information: Framing the Impact of Socio-Economical changes on medieval Mediterranean Agriculture | ANR
- Official Job Announcement: Paleoenvironmental dynamics and management of Holocene Mediterranean landscapes
- Application Portal: Apply for_Paleoenvironmental dynamics and management of Holocene Mediterranean landscapes
📧 Contact for Queries
- Email: Not specified
- Phone: Not specified
This PhD programme offers an excellent opportunity for international scholars seeking fully funded research support, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced research training at the University of Montpellier in France.
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