China University of Petroleum (East China)

About Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P): Located at the heart of the Green City of Benguerir, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), a higher education institution with an international standard, was established to serve Morocco and the African continent and to advance applied research and innovation. This unique university, with state-of-the-art infrastructure, has woven an extensive academic and research network, and its recruitment process is seeking outstanding academics and professionals to promote Morocco and Africa’s innovation ecosystem. About the department Vanguard works on the development of innovative and interdisciplinary applied research projects. From technological innovation to the transfer of research to industry, Vanguard has also the mission of developing an ecosystem of related start-ups. For more information about our Center, please visit our webpage: https://vanguard.um6p.ma/ Offer description: There are many systems of interest to scientists that are composed of individual parts or components linked together in some way. Examples include the Internet, a collection of computers linked by data connections, human societies, which are collections of people linked by acquaintance or social interaction, transportation systems and biological interactions. These systems are represented as networks. A network is a set of objects that are connected to each other in some fashion. Mathematically, a network is represented by a graph, which is a collection of nodes that are connected to each other by edges. The nodes represent the objects of the network and the edges represent relationships between objects. A common way to represent a graph is to use the adjacency matrix associated with the graph. However, adjacency matrices only model networks with one kind of objects or relations between the objects. Many real world networks have a multidimensional nature such as networks that contain multiple connections. For instance, transport networks in a country when considering different means of transportation. The train and bus routes are different types of connections and should in some models be represented by different kinds of edges. These kind of situations can be modeled using multilayer networks which emphasize the different kind or levels, known as layers, of connections between the elements of the network and the interactions between these levels as well. In order to capture the structure and complexity of relationships between the nodes of networks with a mul-tidimensional nature, tensors are used to represent these kind of networks. For example, the transport network mentioned earlier would be represented by a 4th order tensor A 2RN_L_N_L  where L is the number of the layers (transportation means) and N is the number of nodes (stations or stops). Using convenient tensor products, the goal is to define measures to analyze different multidimensional networks based on their adjacency tensors. However, collecting all the interactions in the systems and sometimes even observing all the components is a challenging task. In most cases, only a sample of a network is observed. Therefore, network completion needs to be addressed. Matrix completion methods have proved to be efficient when reconstructing a non fully observed data. These methods can be applied to complete or predict links in a network. However, missing information in a network can include both missing edges and nodes which makes classical matrix completion method insufficient. However,we may collect other information and features about the elements of the network. Therefore, side information about the nodes along with the observed edges need to be exploited. The problem of network completion arrises also for applications where the network has a multidimensional representation such as multiplexes and multilayer networks. Since multidimensional networks can be represented by tensors, one can think of applying tensor completion methods which have proved to be efficient in many applications such as image and video reconstruction. However, the same issue arises, tensor completion methods can not be directly applied to recover the links of the network giving the fact that the data is sparse most of the time. We aim to use auxiliary information about the multiplex and multilayer networks alongside with the observed links in order to predict or reconstruct the missing links. The first step is to explore different optimization methods using low rank tensor minimization and tensor decompositions paired with auxiliary information in order to recover missing links in a multilayer network with connected components. An important constraint in network completion is that the factorization must only capture the non zero entries of the tensor. The remaining entries are treated as missing values, not actual zeros as is often the case in sparse tensor and matrix operations. Therefore, the next step in this project is to address sparse optimization for tensors. We propose the integration of randomized algorithms into sparse optimization frameworks for the purpose of completing multidimensional networks by studying the theoretical foundations behind randomized algorithms in the context of sparse optimization and applications in real world data sets. We are also interested in exploring opportunities for  parallelism of the completion process, highlighting the potential for significant speedup in computations. Job responsibilities Research and Development: Conduct research to develop novel algorithms and methodologies for tensor completion in multidimensional networks. This includes exploring optimization techniques, tensor decompositions, and incorporating auxiliary information for more accurate completion. Algorithm Design: Design and implement algorithms for tensor completion, considering the unique challenges posed by sparse and multidimensional network data. This involves developing efficient and scalable algorithms that can handle large-scale datasets. Tensor Analysis: Analyze the structure and properties of multidimensional networks represented as tensors. Investigate different measures and metrics for characterizing network connectivity and relationships. Sparse Optimization: Address the challenge of sparse optimization for tensors by integrating randomized algorithms into optimization frameworks. Study the theoretical foundations of randomized algorithms in the context of sparse tensor operations and apply them to real-world datasets. Parallel Computing: Explore opportunities for parallelism in the tensor completion process to enhance computational efficiency. Investigate parallel algorithms and architectures that can exploit the inherent parallelism in tensor operations. Collaboration: Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including computer scientists, statisticians, and domain experts to apply tensor completion techniques to real-world applications, especially in the case of social sciences. This involves effective communication and coordination to ensure the successful integration of mathematical methods into practical systems. Publication and Dissemination: Publish research findings in top-tier journals and present results at conferences and workshops. Disseminate knowledge and contribute to the academic community by sharing insights and methodologies developed during the course of the project. Mentorship and Training: Provide mentorship and guidance to graduate students and junior researchers involved in related projects. Share expertise and knowledge in applied mathematics, tensor analysis, and network science to foster the professional development of team members. Qualifications and experience essential PhD in Applied Mathematics in the fields of Numerical Linear Algebra, or equivalent. Prior experience on the subject is highly desired.

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. About ACER CoE:  The centre has been recently created to address enduring process challenges in Chemistry and Engineering disciplines and create an environment for interdisciplinary research. The research program of ACER is multidisciplinary, with faculty members from backgrounds in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Environmental Engineering focusing on different research fields such as catalysis, separation, energy generation, conversion and storage, and organic optoelectronics intelligent and advanced polymers and materials. Area of Research:  The incumbent will join the Applied Chemistry and Engineering Research Centre of Excellence (ACER CoE) whose responsibility will be to develop and conduct a research program in the development of materials for hydrogen storage and porous materials as agents for applications pertinent to energy and environmental issues. Hence, the successful candidate should develop a wide range of expertise, mainly, in the areas of Gas/Vapor/Liquid adsorption and membrane applications, Reticular chemistry of materials, Porous adsorbents, X-ray crystallography, Spectroscopy, and Topological analysis of inorganic and organic-inorganic hybrid coordination polymers. Job description: The Applied Chemistry and Engineering Research Centre of Excellence (ACER CoE) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) invites applications for a postdoctoral fellow position combining skills at the interface between chemistry and chemical engineering under the direction of Prof Youssef Belmabkhout. The successful candidate will develop and conduct applied research programs in chemistry and chemical engineering focusing on designing and development of materials for gas storage applications, gas/vapor/liquid separation purification, sensing and/or waste transformation/energy efficiency. Other duties include advising graduate students and contribution to build up a first-class research-oriented research program at UM6P. The incumbent will be encouraged to collaborate with other researchers in related fields within the centre and within UM6P. The position is open to individuals who hold a Doctoral degree in the subject discipline from a recognized university. The candidate should demonstrate that their PhD work and past experience allow them to have a connection to one or several aspects of the areas of research mentioned above. Very good English communication, both verbal and written, is required. Key duties: Successful candidates are expected to: Conducting scientific research in a team composed of multidisciplinary researchers; Supervise graduate student within ACER CoE; Participate to develop funded research projects and programs in the area in collaboration with multidisciplinary groups in the field; Presenting research results and scientific outcomes to stakeholders and at scientific meetings and conferences; Publish research results in peer-reviewed and high impact international academic journals of the field. Criteria of the candidate:  PhD in chemistry or chemical engineering or other related fields from a recognized University; Demonstrated understanding of research excellence and operational requirements to achieve successful/high-quality research; Publication record in leading international and well ranked journals, preferably on the design and preparation of porous materials for gas/vapor adsorptive and membrane separations; Experience in developing and validating methods, operating and troubleshooting different gas/vapor adsorption/membrane testing instruments; Willingness to learn how to generate new ideas, links, and to build upon existing ideas to generate good concepts and solutions; Ability to co-supervise graduate students; Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English language; Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects; Enthusiasm towards generating new ideas and passion for solving challenging problems that require complex creative solutions. Skills: The candidate must have demonstrated a research activity in most of the following disciplinary fields: Synthesis of porous materials (such as MOFs, zeolites or other silica-based materials); Experience in characterization of porous materials using various techniques such as BET, TGA-DSC¬MS, PXRD, SXRD, FTIR, NMR, SEM, XPS, etc. and technical skills on the manipulation of most of those instruments; Experience in the use of academic databases (CCDC, RCSR, ...) and softwares (Material Studio, Diamond, Origin, ....); Evidence of experience in adsorptive or/and membrane separation technologies. Applications must be submitted online in a single electronic zipped folder with the mention of the job title ("Postdotoral fellow in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering" The folder must contain: A cover letter indicating the position applied for and the main research interests. A detailed CV. Brief research proposal. The short-listed candidates will be invited to meet the university selection committee and will be asked to provide a list of three references.

POSTDOC POSITION IN ADVANCED COATING OF LFP MATERIALS – IN COLLABORATION WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO, CANADA We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to explore advanced coating techniques for Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) materials. This role focuses on developing cutting-edge solutions to enhance the performance of LFP batteries, with a particular emphasis on advanced material coating strategies. The project addresses the growing need to improve the surface properties and stability of LFP materials, especially under high-performance applications. Traditional methods for coating and stabilizing LFP cathodes often face limitations in durability and electrochemical efficiency. This research aims to overcome these challenges by applying innovative coating techniques using polymer- and nanomaterial-based coatings. These advanced coatings will enhance not only the chemical and thermal stability of the LFP materials but also improve their electrochemical performance, surface area, and selective permeability. The successful candidate will investigate methods to coating active materials, such as nanostructured coatings, to protect the LFP particles while optimizing their performance in high-energy-density applications. The coated LFP materials should exhibit superior mechanical and chemical resilience, ensuring that the coatings maintain their structural integrity during industrial-scale operations. Key research areas include: Developing novel polymer- or nanomaterial-based shells to coat the LFP particles Enhancing the surface properties of the coatings to selectively permit ion diffusion, increasing the electrochemical performance while reducing unwanted reactions. Ensuring that the coated LFP materials remain stable under high-voltage and cycling conditions typical in energy storage applications. Focusing on scaling these advanced materials for industrial applications, from traditional battery technologies to more innovative energy storage systems. This position will contribute to the next generation of LFP-based batteries, improving their safety, efficiency, and overall performance for sustainable energy storage solutions. Job Description: The successful candidate will carry out duties to the highest standard and will: Undertake original research of international excellence. Develop research objectives and proposals for own and/or collaborative research projects. Publish papers in leading journals and present research findings at national/international conferences, workshops, and meetings to effectively disseminate the results and contribute to successful research outputs. Communicate the development, progress and results of research activities to the team, Communicate the development, progress and results of research activities to the team to ensure that relevant information and issues in the implementation of projects/experiments are captured in as comprehensive and timely manner as possible. Establish collaborative links with the core scientific personnel in related program areas to gain exposure to and build knowledge on experimental/research activities and approaches, in order to improve conceptual development and industrial implementation. Identify areas of improvement within the research structure using integrated management approaches in pursuit of capacity building/strengthening and the preservation of scientific rigor in research studies. Support if required, the development of proposals for research funding. Candidate PROFILE: PhD in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or related subject. Expertise in electrochemistry, polymer chemistry, and materials synthesis. Proficient in the materials (polymers and nanomaterials) characterization. Solid knowledge and experience in polymer coating and LFP or other battery electrode materials. Hands-on experience in battery fabrication and characterization. Familiarity with energy storage technologies is preferred. Associated Skills: Experience working on a project combining organic materials synthesis, purifications, and their characterization. Proven past experiences on the preparation and characterization of polymers and electrochemistry. Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary and multicultural team. Proven ability of working with projects partners to reach their objectives timely. Excellent networking ability and organizational skills. Proven and distinct work experiences in academia and/or industries and/or abroad are highly requested. Ability to generate new ideas, links, and builds upon existing ones to generate unique concepts and solutions. Experience in co-supervision and coordination of masters and PhD level students. Excellent communication in both English and French languages. Good publication track record in peer-reviewed journals with respect of the career development. Willingness to work on an international team and travel between Morocco and Canada. Team Members: UM6P – Dr. Mouad Dahbi – Dr. Mohamed Aqil University Of Waterloo (Waterloo) – Dr. Yuning Li (Department of Chemical Engineering, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology). Program Details: UM6P will be the administrative body for the program, where candidates will apply to the UM6P Postdoctoral Program and will be formally employed as a Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) by UM6P.  Candidates will be paid through the UM6P administration for the entire length of the program. The salary is $2,000 USD/month (approximately $2,700 CAD per month), as guaranteed by UM6P for the entirety of the program. Waterloo co-supervisors may offer additional funding support to the candidates for their residency at Waterloo. The amount and duration of additional funding will be determined on a case-by-case basis. The program duration will normally be three years; during this time the residency will be split between the UM6P and Waterloo campuses. Candidates will spend a total residency of one year and half (1.5) years at Waterloo and a total residency of one year and half (1.5) year at UM6P. The details and schedule will be determined upon mutual agreement by the candidates and their respective UM6P and Waterloo co-supervisors.