Two Doctoral Fellowships in Indo-Persian Material Culture, LA3M, Aix-Marseille Université (Amidex Funded) Aix-Marseille Université in France

Two Doctoral Fellowships (3 years) are available at LA3M, Aix-Marseille Université, France, funded by Amidex, for research on the Indo-Persian Continuum (c. 11th–17th Centuries). The fellowships are part of a new research program directed by Professor Alka Patel and based at LA3M within the university’s archaeology institute, ARKAIA, MMSH. The program focuses on all aspects of material culture in Southern Asia, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, with a preference for projects on the Sultanate period (12th–16th centuries).

Successful applicants will join a vibrant research environment in Provence, southern France, and benefit from the university’s extensive resources, including specialized libraries, the Archives Nationales d’Outre-Mer, and strong international connections. The program includes two required fieldtrips (one to India and one to Central Asia), a shared workspace, equipment stipend, and travel allowance. Doctoral fellows will be full-time, salaried employees with health benefits, expected to complete and defend their dissertations by 30 June 2029. Theses may be written in either French or English, and there are no citizenship restrictions.

Eligibility: Applicants must have a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field, a proven record of research and productivity, and at least an intermediate level in research languages such as Persian, Arabic, Sanskrit, or Indic vernaculars (with certificates/proof required). Familiarity with relevant software (MS Word, Excel, photo database management) is expected. The selection process values well-defined PhD projects, especially those related to the Sultanate period.

Application Process: Submit a two-page letter of interest, a PhD prospectus (5000 words) with chapter breakdown, CV, proof of undergraduate and MA degrees, language certificates/transcripts, and contact details for three recommenders. Applications should be sent to [email protected] by 10 January 2026. Finalist interviews will be held in early February, with offers made by the end of February 2026. For queries, contact Professor Alka Patel at [email protected].

About Aix-Marseille Université: AMU is one of Europe’s leading universities, with over 100 research units and a strong record of international collaboration. The LA3M and AMU maintain partnerships with museums, universities, and institutes across Europe and Asia. The university’s EURAXESS Center provides support for international researchers regarding visas, insurance, accommodation, and other practical matters.

For more information and to apply, visit the application portal.