Postdoctoral Fellowship in Development and Characterization of Organic Membranes

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.

The CBS department of the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University is launching a call for applications for a postdoctoral fellow with expertise in laboratory or pilot scale membrane fabrication and characterization, as well as in the characterization of the physical, chemical, and separation properties of membranes. In-depth knowledge of the properties of materials used in membrane manufacturing, including the selection of appropriate materials based on performance requirements is required.

The postdoctoral fellow will join the CBS-IGSAC department where he will be responsible for participating in the conduct of a research program on the valorization of phosphate by-products and its derivatives in order to develop and carry out studies on membrane techniques allowing the separation, concentration, recovery or destruction of certain elements. Thus, the successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the realization of a wide range of scale-up studies of a membrane manufacturing process to validate the selection of the appropriate design to desalinate brackish water and/or seawater.

Job description:

The position is open to candidates with a PhD or equivalent in a relevant discipline from a recognized university. Candidates must demonstrate that their doctoral work and past experience are related to one or more aspects of membrane manufacturing. Preference will be given to candidates with:

1. Experience in the separation/purification of industrial effluents, particularly with membrane/electromembrane processes,
2. Proven experience in the precipitation of value-added elements through separation methods,
3. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Fluency in English is a must.

Candidate Criteria:

• Ph.D. in Materials Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, Chemistry, Electrochemistry, or other related fields from a recognized university.
• Willingness to learn how to generate new ideas, form new connections, and build on existing ideas to develop effective concepts and solutions.
• Ability to supervise Ph.D. students.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Expected Activities:

• Conduct scientific research within the project team.
• Train and supervise Ph.D. students in their second and third years to prepare them for their defense.
• Conduct electrolysis/electrodialysis and membrane separation experiments.
• Monitor ongoing experiments and adjust settings as appropriate.
• Maintain high standards and quality in laboratory operations.

Position Requirements:

• Expertise in materials chemistry and polymers.
• Competence in materials characterization.
• Knowledge of polymer membrane preparation and characterization.
• Understanding of electrochemistry.
• Expertise in membrane separation techniques.
• Ability to design and conduct electrolysis and electrodialysis experiments.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with an ability to interpret and analyze simulation and/or experimental results.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and quality control measures.
• Capability to work collaboratively within a research team.

Application and Selection Process:

The application package must include:

• A cover letter detailing the candidate's motivation for applying to this position.
• A comprehensive curriculum vitae.
• Brief research statement.
• Contact information for three referees.

The candidate must be highly motivated and capable of working independently. They should possess knowledge of materials and polymer science, along with experience in the preparation and characterization of polymer membranes. Additionally, familiarity with electrochemistry and membrane separation technology would be advantageous.

UM6P.