Postdoctoral Researcher in Geoarchaeology

About the Position

The CNRS (National Centre for Scientific Research) in France invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Geoarchaeology. This position focuses on Water Management in a Mediterranean Capital in the 2nd Millennium BCE, examining Ugarit’s ancient hydraulic systems. The project is part of the prestigious “Water Policies in the Near East, from Sumer to the Present Day” programme, funded by the Collège de France’s Avenir Commun Durable initiative. Supervised by Dr Valérie Matoïan, the research investigates the dynamic relationship between humans and water management in Bronze Age Ugarit (modern-day Syria). This post offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to an international, interdisciplinary collaboration combining archaeology, geoarchaeology, geomatics, and history, with a focus on archival analysis, GIS mapping, and field research documentation.

Position/Job Details

Position: Postdoctoral Researcher
Institution: CNRS – National Center for Scientific Research
Department: Proche-Orient, Caucase : langues, archéologie, cultures (UMR 7192 PROCLAC)
Research Field: History, Archaeology, Geoarchaeology
Location: Paris, France
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Temporary
Start Date (Anticipated): January 2026
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary Range: Not specified
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Geoarchaeology and ancient hydraulic systems
Archaeology of the Levant (Bronze and Iron Ages)
GIS-based spatial analysis and mapping
Human–environment interactions in ancient cities
Water management and sustainability studies

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in Geoarchaeology, Archaeology, or Geomatics
Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively
Proficiency in QGIS or ArcGIS
Excellent written and spoken French and good English communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Expertise in Bronze and Iron Age archaeology in the Levant
Prior research on ancient hydraulic systems
Experience with archival documentation and excavation data
Strong academic publication record

Key Responsibilities

Compile and analyse archival and excavation data on hydraulic structures in Ras Shamra–Ugarit
Develop a comprehensive catalogue and GIS-based map of water-related installations
Produce and publish a reference monograph in the Ras Shamra–Ugarit series
Contribute to seminars, exhibitions, and the Sustainable Common Future closing conference (2027)
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams from France, Europe, and Syria

Application Process

How to Apply:
Submit your application via the CNRS Job Portal using the link below. Applicants must also email supporting documents to:
📧 valerie.matoian@college-de-france.fr, nicolas.jacob@univ-lyon2.fr, bernard.geyer@orange.fr

Required Documents: