Research Engineer Position in Soil Modelling, Data Assimilation

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.

We invite applications for a research engineer position in the field of numerical modelling, data assimilation, and scientific computing applied to soil evolution. This position offers an interesting opportunity to contribute to an interdisciplinary project at the intersection of soil science, physics-based modeling, applied mathematics, and data-driven methods. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team with international backgrounds and may have opportunities to publish in leading journals and conferences.

The research engineer will be part of a multidisciplinary team focused on developing, implementing, and validating numerical models that simulate soil evolution under various conditions (e.g., irrigation, rainfall, and fertilization). The work will emphasize both the development of innovative numerical algorithms and their practical application, including the integration of real-time data through data assimilation techniques.

The research engineer will mainly contribute to one or more of the following areas:

• State-of-the-art study on soil modeling.
• Development and implementation of numerical models for soil–water–fertilizer interactions.
• Integration of data assimilation methods to improve model accuracy and dynamic monitoring capabilities.
• Design and deployment of simulation tools for real-time soil state monitoring.
• Collaboration with domain experts to validate models and support decision-making in agriculture.

• Perform a state-of-the-art study on soil models.
• Contribute to research efforts in numerical modeling and data assimilation for soil evolution.
• Design, implement, and eventually optimize simulation algorithms and software tools.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers from various backgrounds (applied mathematics, agronomy, physics, computer science).
• Potentially contribute to the supervision of student internships and the dissemination of research findings.

• MSc or engineering degree (Ph.D. is a plus) in applied mathematics, computer science, civil/mechanical/environmental engineering, or related fields.
• Strong background in numerical modeling, simulation, and/or data assimilation.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C++ is important (at least one).
• Experience in scientific computing, modeling physical systems, or environmental data analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment.

• Location: College of Computing, UM6P, Benguerir
• Duration: Initial 1-year contract, renewable based on performance and funding.
• Start Date: As soon as possible.

Applicants should submit the following materials as a single PDF document:

• Cover letter describing relevant experience and research interests.
• Detailed CV including academic and/or industrial contributions.
• Contact information of three professional references.
• College transcripts.

Applications should be sent to and with the subject line: "Research Engineer Application – Soil Modeling and Data Assimilation".

UM6P.