Institute of Science, Technology & Innovation (IST&I)
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.
About IST&I: The Institute of Science, Technology & Innovation (IST&I) of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Ben Guerir is dedicated to high level of education, research & innovation in science and engineering. Research & development within IST&I are centred on addressing the major challenges of the phosphate industry in Morocco and Africa, including food security, climate change and resource sustainability. In response to these challenges, IST&I in collaboration with national & international partners aims to develop innovative technologies to improve the fertilizers performance to adapt to the climate changes, the valorization of byproducts to create potential economic value and the implementation of circular economy through resources sustainability and byproducts valorization.
The Institute of Science, Technology & Innovation (IST&I) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) invites applications for multiple PostDoc positions to undertake research in the area of expertise related to :
- Organic chemistry
- Polymer Science
- Hydrometallurgy
- Minerals engineering
- Environmental Science
Job description
Subject 1: Design and synthesis of inorganic materials for heavy metals remediation
This project aims to develop advanced inorganic materials exhibiting excellent properties for further application as adsorbents and membrane materials for the demetallization of wastewater and phosphoric acid, and the recovery of valuable metals. These materials will be synthesized from industrial byproducts through chemical and thermal procedures.
Subject 2: Design of new polymer-based materials and functionalized resins
This project will focus on the sustainable synthesis of functionalized biosourced polymers sourced from agricultural waste biomasses for potential utilization as adsorbents for wastewater decontamination and as coating materials for fertilizers. The project will also include the synthesis of functionalized ion-exchange resins for metals extraction.
Subject 3: Development of efficient and cost-effective additives through sustainable organic synthesis
This project focuses on the design and synthesis of innovative organic and inorganic formulations, with the aim of developing specific additives for the demetallization of phosphoric acid. Additionally, other specific ligands will be synthesized including flotation collectors, defoamers and deodorisers. For this purpose, various organic and inorganic ligands will be synthesised and analysed using advanced characterization techniques (NMR, HPLC, GC-MS, …).
Subject 4: Beneficiation and demetallization of phosphate rock
This project will mainly focus on the beneficiation and demetallization of phosphate rock using flotation and selective leaching. Different synthesized selective flotation agents and lixiviants will be applied to enhance the quality of the phosphate rock to meet the quality requirements of the market.
Subject 5: Hydrometallurgical separation of metals
This project will be dedicated to the development of selective and cost-effective hydrometallurgical separation techniques for metals production including the extraction and the precipitation using organic and inorganic counter-ions. Specifically, the project will establish the speciation cartography of metals with different mineral and organic counter-ions in different media.
Criteria of the candidates
The candidates should be strongly self-motivated, keen to innovate, and can work well in an interdisciplinary research environment, and with rigorous work ethic. He/she should be able to deliver outputs (group meetings, scientific publications, presentations, and the dissertation) in the targeted timeframes, and according to the international standards of excellence.
Other specific criteria include:
- PhD degree in organic chemistry, polymer science, hydrometallurgy, minerals engineering, environmental science or other related fields from a recognized University;
- Proven research experience in the mentioned areas of expertise and related subjects;
- Good publication record in high-impact journals;
- Willingness to learn how to generate new ideas, links, and to build upon existing ideas to generate good concepts and solutions;
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English language;
- Ability to participate in training and supervision of graduate students, development of teaching materials,
- Enthusiasm and passion toward solving challenging problems that require complex creative solutions;
- Very good knowledge and excellent experimental skills in preparation and characterization of organic/inorganic materials (NMR, XRD,GC-MS FTIR, SEM, TGA, ICP…) are expected.
Application and Selection Process
Applications must be submitted online; the folder must contain:
- A cover letter detailing the candidate's motivation for applying to this position.
- A comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV).
- Brief research statement.
- 3 references to be contacted directly by IST&I.
