PhD en cognition animale (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

PhD in Animal Cognition
As part of the ANR RE-PAIR project (Reciprocal Exchanges between Primates and Interactive Robots), we are recruiting a PhD student (October 2026–October 2029).

The RE-PAIR project aims to deepen our understanding of the biological basis of exchange and barter. Previous work by the team has shown that calculated reciprocity (taking into account what has been given and received before engaging in an exchange with a conspecific) has only been demonstrated in a single species of non-human primate (the orangutan). However, non-human primates appear to possess the cognitive abilities necessary for calculated reciprocity. Thus, the poor performances observed raise questions about the role of social regulation on primates' abilities to exchange and barter. The aim of RE-PAIR is to replace the conspecific social partner with a robot whose social and cognitive qualities will be manipulated. This should help identify the factors which promote or, conversely, inhibits the emergence of calculated reciprocity.
The study will involve a comparison between several species of primates (capuchin monkeys, baboons, great apes, humans), which will enable us to contrast the cognitive and social prerequisites involved and their impact on the performance of individuals within each species. The primates will be studied at several sites across Europe (zoos) with populations accustomed to performing cognitive tasks.
Required profile: The project requires a high degree of mobility on the part of the successful candidate (spending several months in a row in at least four different countries). Experience in animal cognition is essential, preferably with great apes. An excellent level of English is also essential. This PhD position is open only to students holding a master's degree in biology, neuroscience or equivalent fields, including modules in animal behaviour or cognition. The successful candidate must demonstrate autonomy, be able to integrate into teams at the various sites, adapt to constraints, and demonstrate good organisational and interpersonal skills. The ability and willingness to communicate with the public is an advantage. This project also requires good skills in data processing and statistical analysis, as well as excellent scientific writing skills.
Duration of the PhD: 3 years
The salary is €2,300 gross per month.
Please also join a CV, a cover letter, your Master thesis and your Master's grades. Please also include the contact details of two academic referees who have supervised your work.

Your Work Environment

Working environment: The Laboratory of Social and Cognitive Psychology (LAPSCO – UMR UCA-CNRS 6024; www.lapsco.fr) is located on the Carnot campus of Clermont Auvergne University, in the heart of Clermont-Ferrand. This joint research unit (UMR) currently comprises 43 permanent researchers and a total of 102 staff members, including contract staff, PhD students and postdoctoral researchers.
The LAPSCO investigates behavioural and cognitive processes involved in major mental functions (perception, attention, memory, language and temporality). It explores the neural basis of these functions, as well as their social and cultural determinants, with applications in key areas such as education, health and industry. At the interface between experimental psychology (social, cognitive and developmental) and integrative neuroscience, the laboratory is organised around four main teams:
- Cognition-Behaviour-Context
- Social Behaviour and Collective Dynamics
- Physiological and Psychosocial Stress
- Social and Cognitive Ethology



The host team is based in Strasbourg and comprises specialists in the behaviour and cognition of primates and other species. It hosts several PhD and Master students, as well as several postdoctoral researchers, in a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. The project also relies on collaborations with colleagues in Clermont-Ferrand, who specialise in the social regulation of human behaviour, and with robotics researchers at the Prisme laboratory.
The successful candidate will work under the direct supervision of Valérie Dufour (LAPSCO).
Planned start date for the PhD: October 2026

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions