About the Program
The Institute of Marine Research (IIM-CSIC) in Vigo, Spain, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Archaeology. it is a part of the OLDSALMO project, funded by the ATRAE programme. This exciting opportunity sits at the intersection of archaeology, evolutionary biology, and artificial intelligence (AI). The successful candidate will join the ACUABIOTEC Laboratory, working under the supervision of Dr Susana Consuegra, to develop image-based species identification methods powered by AI. These tools will be integrated with metabarcoding data to explore long-term changes in fish populations, particularly Atlantic salmon, using ancient and environmental DNA. This is a rare chance to engage in interdisciplinary research with tangible conservation outcomes, supported by a world-class international network including Swansea University, Harvard University, and NINA Norway.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Institute of Marine Research (IIM-CSIC)
- Department/Faculty: ACUABIOTEC Laboratory
- Supervisor: Dr Susana Consuegra
- Location: Vigo, Spain
- Start Date (Anticipated): November or December 2025
- Duration: 3 years
- Funding: Fully funded via the ATRAE programme (salary + research support)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: MSc or equivalent in Biology, Archaeology, or related fields
Research Focus/Area
- Ancient DNA and environmental DNA
- Molecular ecology and evolutionary biology
- Image recognition and artificial intelligence
- Fisheries history and conservation archaeology
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Biology, Archaeology, or a related field
- Basic experience in molecular biology, bioinformatics, or AI
- Programming skills in R or Python
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience with genetic or imaging data
- Strong academic track record
- Interdisciplinary interest across life sciences and heritage research
- Ability to work in international teams
Key Features of the Program
- Access to cutting-edge lab facilities
- Collaboration with international institutions (Harvard, Swansea, NINA, Cantabria)
- Interdisciplinary training in ecology, archaeology, and AI
- Field sampling, computational work, and molecular lab experience
- Support for travel and conferences
Application Process
How to Apply:
Send a CV and cover letter to sconsuegra@iim.csic.es
Required Documents:
- CV
- Cover Letter outlining motivation and relevant experience
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 8 September 2025
- Interviews: 12 or 15 September 2025
- PhD Enrolment: October 2025 (University of Vigo)
Where to Apply
- University Website: IIM-CSIC – Institute of Marine Research
- Project Website: OLDSALMO Project
- Application Email: sconsuegra@iim.csic.es
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