Senior Scientist

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.

Location: ACME, UM6P campus, Nouaceur

Report to: Technical Manager / General Manager

Entity: Africa Center of Manufacturing Excellence (ACME) is a Technology development platform focused on Advanced Manufacturing, Industry 4.0, automation and tooling.

Mission: We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Scientist specializing in Composites Manufacturing to lead and contribute to R&D efforts focused on advanced composite materials, automated fabrication technologies, and next-generation manufacturing processes. The successful candidate will drive innovation in thermoset and thermoplastic composites, with an emphasis on process development, automation, characterization, and scale-up for aerospace, automotive, or industrial applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and execute R&D programs in composites manufacturing, including resin infusion, automated fiber placement (AFP), additive manufacturing, autoclave and out-of-autoclave curing, and compression molding.
• Develop, evaluate, and optimize processing techniques for advanced composites (e.g., carbon fiber reinforced polymers, thermoplastics, nanocomposites).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in materials, design, and mechanical testing to develop high-performance, cost-effective composite structures.
• Support technology transfer and scale-up from lab to pilot and production environments.
• Assisting in scaling-up new products and overseeing initial production launches across multiple co-manufacturing facilities and diverse product categories.
• Prepare technical reports, proposals, and publications for internal stakeholders and external clients or funding agencies.
• Integrating manufacturing and processing considerations into product development efforts, ensuring efficiency and feasibility throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams, including colleagues in various roles and external partners, to drive successful project outcomes.
• Assisting in evaluating new equipment and technologies for potential implementation in production processes.

Qualifications and Experience:

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of professional experience in the development of composite structures and advanced manufacturing processes.
• Hands-on experience with manufacturing techniques such as AFP, ATL, AM, RTM, filament winding, or press molding.
• Experience with smart manufacturing, data analytics, or model-based process control.
• Background in aerospace or defense-grade composite certification standards.
• Proficiency in simulation software (e.g., ANSYS, Moldex3D, Digimat, ABAQUS) or process modeling tools.
• Strong knowledge of structure–property–process relationships in fiber-reinforced composites.
• Familiar with non-destructive testing (NDT), quality control, and digital manufacturing tools.
• Track record of publications on recognized international peer reviewed journals as well as noticeable experience in business planning, Techno-economic evaluations.
• Strong communication and documentation skills in English. Fluency in French  would be a plus.

UM6P.