Post-Doctoral positions in the field of thermal energy storage

About UM6P:   

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is a highly respected higher education institution located in the Green City of Benguerir, with a mission to promote education, training, and teaching, as well as applied research and innovation. UM6P boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure and an extensive academic and research network, and is dedicated to economic and human development. The university places research and innovation at the service of the African continent and is committed to providing relevant skills training to advance Morocco and Africa's innovation ecosystem. UM6P's unique partnership approach strengthens its position as an avant-garde in these areas, and the university aims to shine nationally, continentally, and internationally as a leading institution for education and research. UM6P offers highly competitive incentives to its current and future talented research staff.

About LIMSET
LIMSET, the Laboratory of Inorganic Materials for Sustainable Energy Technologies, is dedicated to advancements in sustainable energy through innovative research and training. Our focus lies in the design, development, and optimization of inorganic materials for various sustainable energy processes. We work diligently to contribute to the competitiveness of Moroccan and African companies by conducting research across a wide range of applied sciences.
Our main activities turn around key pillars of sustainable energy. We explore into renewable energy, discovering ways to maximize its potential and effectiveness. Additionally, we are committed to advancing thermal energy storage technologies, all-solid-state batteries, green hydrogen and green ammonia production and storage methods. Through these activities, LIMSET plays a crucial role in shaping a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for Morocco, Africa, and beyond.

Job description : 
The LIMSET-UM6P invites applications for post-doctoral researchers in the area of thermal energy storage. The research areas that the post-doctoral researchers will work on include:
•    Lead the design and synthesis of novel materials suitable for thermal energy storage systems, focusing on their thermophysical properties and compatibility with heat transfer fluids.
•    Investigate the thermodynamics and interfacial structure-property relationships of materials intended for thermal energy storage to deepen understanding and optimize performance.
•    Develop innovative approaches to minimize heat loss and maximize energy storage efficiency, considering both sensible, latent, and thermochemical energy storage methods.
•    Explore novel materials and chemistries for thermal energy storage, including the valorization of industrial by-products to create viable and environmentally sustainable storage solutions.
•    Implement strategies to enhance the manufacturing processes for thermal energy storage materials, with a focus on scalability, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with industrial processes.
•    Mentor junior researchers involved in the development of thermal energy storage systems, fostering their professional growth.
•    Contribute to the dissemination of research findings through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and international conferences, workshops, and meetings.
•    Collaborate effectively with industry partners and other research institutions to leverage resources and expertise for the advancement of thermal energy storage technologies.
•    Potentially engage in teaching activities to share knowledge and contribute to the academic mission of the institution, up to no more than 20% of working hours.
•    Skills in utilizing artificial intelligence for materials design will be highly valued, particularly in optimizing thermal energy storage materials for various applications and improving system efficiency.
The LIMSET is engaged in pioneering research and development projects to promote the invention and improvement of thermal energy storage technologies. The Post-Doctoral positions are an excellent opportunity for talented and highly motivated candidates to join a dynamic team and contribute to this important and exciting field of research.

Position Requirements:
The primary role of the chosen candidates is to contribute to the expansion of research programs concerning all-solid-state batteries by demonstrating at least some of the following competencies. 
•    Demonstrate a strong motivation for creative applied research, with specific expertise in inorganic chemistry, involving the design and synthesis of novel materials for thermal energy storage systems. This includes proficiency in organic, inorganic or both chemistry techniques.
•    Possess proven skills in investigating organic or inorganic materials relevant to thermal energy storage, including conducting structural characterizations and studying their thermophysical properties.
•    Proficiency in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation of thermal energy storage systems, enabling the modeling and analysis of heat transfer, fluid flow, and thermodynamic behavior within the storage system to optimize design and performance.
•    Demonstrated proficiency in Density Functional Theory (DFT) and/or Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations, enabling the computational investigation of material properties, electronic structure, and atomic-scale behavior, particularly in the context of thermal energy storage.
•    Showcase the ability to conduct independent research while demonstrating scientific skill and effectively collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, as required in the development of thermal energy storage technologies.
•    Experience in preparing scientific manuscripts, reports, and presentations, with a focus on communicating research findings in the context of thermal energy storage.

Criteria of the candidates:
•    PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or related disciplines, with a focus on inorganic materials and/or electrochemistry.
•    Strong motivation and passion for research in the field of thermal energy storage and organic or inorganic materials chemistry.
•    Ability to perform multidisciplinary research and contribute to funded research programs.
•    Ability to the planning, sourcing, and development of new initiatives and ongoing research activities.
•    Proven ability to identify and fulfil the academic writing requirements for the development of proposals, reports, and scientific publications.
•    Demonstrated understanding of operational requirements for a successful research project and managing time and resources.
•    Good English communication skills, both verbal and written are important. 
•    Ability to work both as part of a team and to work independently. 

Application and selection 
The application folder must contain: 
•    A cover letter setting out the candidate's motivation in relation to this job profile.
•    A detailed curriculum vitae.
•    Brief research statement.
•    Contact information of 3 referees (PhD mentor and referees familiar with the applicant’s education and research experience. Applicants are assumed to have obtained their references’ consent to be contacted for this matter). 

Working conditions of the position:
Deadline: The selection process ends once the candidates are selected 
Start of contract: As soon as possible.
Location: UM6P, Benguerir
Type of Contract: CDD.
 

UM6P.