Post-Doctoral Researcher in Paleoclimatology (Hydroclimatic Reconstructions and Climate Modelling) University of Bordeaux in France

The University of Bordeaux invites applications for a Post-Doctoral Researcher in Paleoclimatology, focusing on hydroclimatic reconstructions and climate modelling within the ERC-funded PLIODIS project. The position is based at the Oceanic and Continental Environments and Palaeoenvironments (EPOC) laboratory, a multidisciplinary research unit renowned for expertise in ecotoxicology, ecology, biogeochemistry, environmental chemistry, sedimentology, paleoclimatology, coastal oceanography, and marine geosciences. EPOC operates under joint supervision by the University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, and the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes.

The PLIODIS project investigates the link between climate and environmental changes and the evolution of hominid populations in Africa. The postdoctoral researcher will conduct geochemical analyses on marine sediment cores (including d18Oc measurements on foraminiferous and dD measurements on n-alkanes) to reconstruct past hydrological cycles. These reconstructions will be integrated with numerical simulations of past climate using the iLOVECLIM model, covering transient simulations over the last three million years. The research aims to test hypotheses about hominin range expansions and contractions, dispersal corridors, gene flow, and the impact of tectonic changes such as the Zambezi River becoming a significant barrier.

Responsibilities include compiling geochemical results, performing climate modelling, comparing models with available paleoclimatic data, and integrating climate and environmental changes with hominid evolution. The researcher will present findings to the team and at seminars, contributing to the broader understanding of atmospheric and oceanic processes involved in long-term and short-term climate changes.

The position offers a 30-month fixed-term contract with a gross monthly salary ranging from 2750€ to 3000€, 50 days of annual leave, coverage of 75% of the Gironde public transport pass, a 15€ monthly contribution to private healthcare insurance, subsidised meals, leisure, sports, and cultural activities, staff parking, a sustainable mobility package, and access to training courses and a welcome programme. The laboratory is located in Pessac, near Bordeaux city centre and the Atlantic coast, with convenient access by tram, bus, and bike.

Applicants must hold a PhD in Climate Sciences, demonstrate proven knowledge of paleoclimate data, and show interest in hominid evolution. Essential skills include autonomy, scientific rigor, mastery of geochemical analysis techniques, experience in programming or climate modelling, and proficiency in English (C1/C2 level). Compliance with French working laws is required.

To apply, send a CV, brief statement of qualifications and interest, list of relevant publications, and email addresses of two references to [email protected]. The selection process includes a pre-qualification phone conversation and an interview with the supervisor via videoconference. The application deadline is 4 April 2026, and the position starts on 1 June 2026.