MASCIR - Postdoc in Molecular Soil Biology and Ecology

Job Summary

MAScIR-UM6P is seeking an enthusiastic and highly skilled Postdoctoral Researcher to join our research team. The successful candidate will be involved in cutting-edge research focusing on soil biology, microbial ecology, and molecular biology techniques. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to advancing our understanding of microbial communities in soil ecosystems and their roles in nutrient cycling, soil health, and environmental sustainability.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research projects focused on the effect seaweeds bioproducts on soil biology, soil carbon, microbial diversity, and functional genomics. 
• Apply molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, metagenomics, transcriptomics) to study microbial communities in soil environments. 
• Develop and optimize laboratory protocols for characterization, and functional analysis of soil biology.
• Utilize high-throughput sequencing technologies to analyze soil microbiomes and interpret the data using bioinformatics tools. 
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of researchers, including soil scientists, biochemists, and ecologists. 
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at national and international conferences. 
• Mentor graduate students and contribute to the lab's overall research strategy. 
• Manage and analyze large datasets, ensuring proper documentation and reproducibility. 

Qualifications and Experience

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field. 
• Strong background in soil microbiology and molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, qPCR, DNA/RNA extraction, sequencing). 
• Experience with high-throughput sequencing technologies (e.g., Illumina, PacBio) and bioinformatics analysis. 
• Solid understanding of microbial ecology, soil systems, and their interactions with plants and the environment. 
• Experience in microbial functional analysis (e.g., functional gene sequencing, metabolic pathway analysis). 
•  Knowledge of environmental sustainability, soil health, or plant-microbe interactions.
• Proficiency in the use of bioinformatics tools for metagenomic and transcriptomic data analysis (e.g., QIIME, DADA2, R, Python). 
• Demonstrated ability to independently design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and publish results. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks effectively. 
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team. 

Application procedure:

Applications must be sent using a single electronic zipped folder with the mention of the job title. The folder must contain:

• A detailed CV.

• A synthetic presentation of your background, projects and activities, key achievements

• cover letter highlighting their qualifications 

• 3 references letters

About UM6P:

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University is an institution dedicated to research and innovation in Africa and aims to position itself among world-renowned universities in its fields.

The University is engaged in economic and human development and puts research and innovation at the forefront of African development. A mechanism that enables it to consolidate Morocco's frontline position in these fields, in a unique partnership-based approach and boosting skills training relevant for the future of Africa.

Located in the municipality of Benguerir, in the very heart of the Green City, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University aspires to leave its mark nationally, continentally, and globally.