CAES - Postdoctoral Researcher in synthetic chemistry for agricultural application

Host program: College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, AgroBioSciences Program.

Position: Postdoctoral Researcher in synthetic chemistry for agricultural application.

Duration: 2 years (CDD)

About UM6P:

At the heart of the future Green City of Benguerir, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), a higher education institution with an international standard, is established to serve Morocco and the African continent. Its vision is honed around research and innovation at the service of education and development. This unique nascent university, with its state-of-the-art campus and infrastructure, has woven a sound academic and research network, and its recruitment process is seeking high-quality academics and professionals to boost its quality-oriented research environment in the metropolitan area of Marrakech. 

About AgroBioSciences (AgBS):

The AgroBioSciences (AgBS) program is a component of the Science & Technology pole of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). It constitutes a structure of higher education and practical-based research with a vision of solving real African agriculture challenges by leveraging up-to-date science and technology.

The AgroBiosciences Program Research Center leverages up-to-date technologies to address African agriculture challenges. It is a multidisciplinary research center that aims to conduct relevant, cutting-edge research that positively impacts African agriculture. It is based on the collaboration and synergy of several research programs targeting diverse disciplines of research in agriculture, such as 

Microbiome, Omics, Plant Physiology and Crop Improvement, Plant Pathology, By-products Valorization, Soil Sciences, Agronomy, and Sustainable Farming…

Job Description:

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled in synthetic chemistry, chemical biology or related fields to join our research team as postdoctoral researcher at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences within the AgroBioSciences Program at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Benguerir, Morocco. 

The candidate will play a vital role in advancing research related to the development of innovative nutrient efficiency fertilizers formulations. Your primary objective will be to develop advanced agri-formulations aiming to improve soil health and nutrient use efficiency. 

As a successful candidate you will be actively involved in various research activities including laboratory and field experiments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and synthesize chemical and biobased formulation for better soil physico-chemical traits and.
• Characterize synthesized materials using a range of analytical techniques, such as spectroscopy, microscopy, and porosity analysis, to assess structure-property relationships.
• Conduct comprehensive evaluations of developed fertilizer formulations in laboratory and greenhouse settings to assess water retention capacity, nutrient release kinetics, and plant growth performance.
• Perform detailed statistical analyses and interpret data to draw meaningful conclusions and recommendations.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary team members, including agronomists, soil scientists, and engineers, to integrate material innovations into practical fertilizer products.
• Prepare research reports, scientific publications, and patent applications to communicate results and contribute to project deliverables.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field with a focus on porous materials
• Strong background in material characterization methods, such as FTIR spectroscopy, SEM/TEM imaging, BET analysis, and thermal analysis.
• Experience in designing, planning, and conducting agricultural experiments to test produced fertilizers, to improve crop yields, resource efficiency, and water retention.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and a demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Effective communication skills, including the ability to present research findings clearly and concisely in both written and oral formats.
• Prior experience with project management, grant writing, and technology transfer activities is desirable but not required.

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter, detailed curriculum vitae (CV), and contact information for three professional references. In your cover letter, please highlight your relevant experience, research interests, and why you are interested in joining our team.