Looking for an academic research opportunity in France? The Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) is hiring a Prehistoric Archaeologist – Field Director for a 12-month contract starting in September 2026. The role involves leading archaeological excavations at the Neolithic site of Al-Mathana in the Khaybar region of Saudi Arabia.
The position is part of the DREH (Dynamics of the Regional Early Holocene in Khaybar) project, conducted by the Archéorient research unit at CNRS. The appointed researcher will manage excavation activities, supervise field operations, and contribute to the scientific study of early Holocene occupations in north-western Arabia.
The Field Director will coordinate excavation strategies, ensure accurate archaeological recording, and supervise multidisciplinary teams working on the Al-Mathana site. The role includes managing stratigraphic excavation, documentation systems, sampling procedures, GIS records, and post-excavation research activities.
In addition, the researcher will contribute to lithic analysis, scientific reports, publications, and knowledge dissemination. The position requires experience in prehistoric archaeology, excavation management, and international fieldwork environments, with regular missions to Saudi Arabia.
Position Details
- Position: Prehistoric Archaeologist – Field Director (H/F)
- Official Reference Number: UMR5133-REMCRA-012
- Institution: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), France
- Research Unit: Archéorient – Environments and Societies of the Ancient East
- Research Discipline(s): Prehistoric Archaeology, Neolithic Archaeology, Archaeological Field Research
- Location: Lyon, France (with fieldwork in Khaybar, Saudi Arabia)
- Job Type: Researcher on Fixed-Term Contract (CDD)
- Contract Duration: 12 months
- Start Date: September 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary/Funding: From €3,071 gross per month depending on experience
- Required Qualification: PhD in Prehistory, Prehistoric Archaeology, or related discipline
Research Areas
The position focuses on the following research areas:
- Neolithic archaeology and early Holocene occupations
- Prehistoric excavation and stratigraphic analysis
- Lithic technology and artefact studies
- Archaeological documentation and digital recording
- Settlement organisation and subsistence practices
- Archaeology of the Arabian Peninsula
Eligibility/Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- PhD in Prehistory, Prehistoric Archaeology, or a related discipline with relevant research experience.
- Experience directing or co-directing archaeological excavation projects and managing field operations.
- Strong knowledge of fine stratigraphic excavation, archaeological recording, and site interpretation methods.
- Experience analysing dry-stone architecture and developing chronological sequences.
- Expertise in lithic technology, with knowledge of Mesolithic or Neolithic archaeology preferred.
- Skills in GIS tools, databases, photogrammetry, and digital archaeological documentation systems.
- Strong scientific writing and research reporting abilities.
- Fluency in French with professional written and spoken English skills.
- Ability to work independently in challenging international fieldwork conditions.
- Availability for extended archaeological missions in Saudi Arabia.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Lead scientific and operational management of excavations at the Al-Mathana Neolithic site.
- Develop excavation strategies with the project management team.
- Supervise field archaeologists, specialists, technicians, and students.
- Ensure accurate stratigraphic recording, sampling, and documentation procedures.
- Manage GIS data, archaeological databases, photographs, drawings, and 3D records.
- Contribute to artefact studies, research reports, publications, and scientific presentations.
Funding and Benefits
The CNRS researcher contract provides the following salary and employment benefits:
- Salary: From €3,071 gross per month, depending on professional experience.
- Annual Leave: 44 days of annual leave and RTT entitlement.
- Transport Support: Coverage of 75% of eligible transport costs.
- Sustainable Mobility Package: Allowance of up to €300 for sustainable travel options.
Application Process
Applicants should submit their application through the official CNRS recruitment portal. Candidates should review the position requirements and prepare the necessary documents before submitting their application.
Required documents may include:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Academic and professional qualifications
- Research experience details
- Evidence of excavation and fieldwork experience
- Scientific publications or relevant research outputs
- Supporting documents requested through the CNRS application portal
Important Dates
- Applications Open: July 2026
- Application Deadline: 20 August 2026, 11:59 PM
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: September 2026
Eligible candidates should access the official CNRS job portal and complete their application before the deadline of 20 August 2026, 11:59 PM to be considered for this prehistoric archaeology research position.
Related Academic Opportunities
- International Archaeology Jobs Worldwide
- Global Postdoctoral Research Positions
- Prehistoric Archaeology Research Opportunities
- Funded PhD Opportunities Abroad
- Academic Research Careers in France
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Prehistoric Archaeologist – Field Director position at CNRS?
It is a 12-month researcher contract focused on managing Neolithic excavations at the Al-Mathana archaeological site in Saudi Arabia.
What qualification is required for this CNRS archaeology position?
Applicants must hold a PhD in Prehistory, Prehistoric Archaeology, or a related discipline with relevant excavation experience.
Where will the researcher work?
The position is based at CNRS Archéorient in Lyon, France, with archaeological field missions in Khaybar, Saudi Arabia.
What is the application deadline for this position?
The application deadline is 20 August 2026 at 11:59 PM.
Institutional Overview
The Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) is France’s largest public research organisation, supporting research across science, technology, humanities, and social sciences. Founded to advance fundamental research, CNRS works through specialised research units and international collaborations. The organisation supports academic research opportunities, doctoral projects, postdoctoral positions, and scientific careers across diverse disciplines. Through its archaeology and heritage research programmes, CNRS contributes to the study of past societies, human evolution, and cultural development. Its researchers work with global partners to address major questions through interdisciplinary approaches, making CNRS a leading institution for research careers in France and worldwide.
HigherJobz shares international archaeology jobs, PhD opportunities, postdoctoral positions, and research careers worldwide. Explore similar academic opportunities and stay updated with global research openings.
