About Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P)

Located at the heart of the Green City of Benguerir, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is an institution dedicated to world-class education, applied research, and innovation for Morocco and Africa. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a vast network of academic and industrial partners, UM6P is committed to advancing sustainable development and building a thriving innovation ecosystem on the continent.

About The Sustainable Materials Research Center (SusMat - RC)

The Sustainable Materials Research Center (SusMat-RC) is a multidisciplinary research centre focused on the development of advanced materials from renewable bio-resources. Our mission spans from fundamental science, understanding structure-property relationships at multiple scales to applied engineering, creating sustainable solutions for key industrial and environmental challenges. We aim to drive the transition toward a circular and green economy in Morocco and across Africa through innovative material science.

Job Description

An exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) to join the Sustainable Materials Research Center (SusMat-RC) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P).

The selected candidate will contribute to a pioneering research project focused on developing advanced bioinspired, circular-economy-driven biobased functional materials for sustainable agriculture, with a specific focus on water–soil interfaces, water retention, fertilizer/nutrient-controlled release, and soil hydration using multi-source biomass feedstocks.

Job Duties

The successful candidate is expected to:

• Design, formulate, and characterize biobased materials such as hydrogels, polymers, and composites for agricultural applications.

• Develop and optimize protocols for the encapsulation and controlled release of nutrients.

• Investigate water-use efficiency, soil moisture dynamics, and nutrient availability in water-retentive and responsive systems, with relevance to arid and semi-arid agricultural conditions.

• Utilize a variety of analytical, spectroscopic, and microscopic techniques (FTIR, UV–Vis, XRD, DLS, SEM–EDS, TEM, TGA/DSC) for material characterization.

• Collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary team.

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all experiments, data, and findings.

• Prepare manuscripts for high-impact scientific journals and present research at national and international conferences.

• Contribute to the development of research proposals and seek external funding.

• Assist in the supervision of master's and doctoral students.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, ideal candidate is expected to have:

• A recently awarded Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.

• Demonstrated hands-on experience in polymer/hydrogel synthesis, biopolymer modification, development of water-retentive formulation, and characterization.

• Experience or strong interest in sustainable agriculture, controlled-release systems, soil science interfaces, or water management in water-limited environments is an advantage.

• Proven ability to conduct independent research with a strong publication record.

• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team.

• High degree of motivation, initiative, and a focus on quality research outputs.

• Proficient oral and written communication skills in English.

How To Apply

Please submit the following documents in a single PDF file:

• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).

• A one-page cover letter addressing:

• How your research background and skills align with this specific project.

• Your motivation for applying to this position and the SusMat-RC.

• Contact information for two professional referees.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. An early application is encouraged.