KhNPU named after H.S. Skovoroda

Job Description: Postdoctoral Fellow Duration: 12 months. Position Summary: We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Postdoctoral Researcher to join a multidisciplinary research project focused on the sustainable valorization of phosphate-rich mining waste through innovative comminution strategies. The successful candidate will play a leading role in advancing research on autogenous grinding as a low-energy alternative for liberating indurated phosphates stored in mining waste deposits (MATs). This project integrates mineralogical and mechanical characterization, pilot-scale testing, and advanced process simulation, with the objective of optimizing grinding performance and enhancing resource recovery. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mineral processing, comminution modeling, and ore characterization, and will contribute to developing an integrated beneficiation strategy that reduces operational costs, and energy consumption. This research aligns with broader goals of promoting circular economy practices and technological innovation in the Moroccan phosphate mining sector. Area of Research: Sustainable mineral processing, with a focus on autogenous grinding and the valorization of indurated phosphate-rich waste rocks. Main responsibilities: Conduct a detailed literature review on autogenous grinding and phosphate-rich mining waste. Design and implement mechanical, mineralogical, and rheological characterizations of MATs. Select and dimension an appropriate autogenous mill for pilot testing. Lead the design and execution of lab-scale autogenous grinding trials based on experimental design. Contribute to the numerical modeling of beneficiation circuits (e.g., using USIMPAC or similar software). Analyze, interpret, and report the outcomes of simulations and pilot tests. Draft technical reports and scientific publications. Coordinate with internal researchers, external labs, and industrial partners. Candidate Profile: Required qualifications : PhD in Mineral Processing, Mining Engineering, Georesources Engineering, or related field. Proven experience in ore characterization techniques (mechanical, mineralogical, physical). Solid knowledge of comminution technologies and mineral beneficiation processes. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English or French. Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Preferred qualifications: Experience in grinding technology. Familiarity with process simulation software (e.g., USIMPAC, MODSIM, METSIM). Prior collaboration with industrial partners. Good knowledge of phosphate ores and North African mineral context. Application Documents: Interested candidates should submit the following documents: Cover letter Detailed CV List of publications Copies of diplomas Professional references (minimum of 2)

About Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is an internationally oriented institution of higher learning, that is committed to an educational system based on the highest standards of teaching and research in fields related to the sustainable economic development of Morocco and Africa. UM6P is an institution oriented towards applied research and innovation. On a specific focus on Africa, UM6P aims to position these fields as the forefront and become a university of international standing. More than just a traditional academic institution, UM6P is a platform for experimentation and a pool of opportunities, for students, professors, and staff. It offers a high-quality living and study environment thanks to its state-of-the-art infrastructure. With an innovative approach, UM6P places research and innovation at the heart of its educational project as a driving force of a business model. In its research approach, the UM6P promotes transdisciplinary, entrepreneurship spirit and collaboration with external institutions for developing up to date science and at continent level in order to address real challenges. All our programs run as start-ups and can be self-organized when they reach a critical mass. Thus, academic liberty is promoted as far as funding is developed by research teams. The research programs are integrated from long-term research to short-term applications in linkage with incubation and start-up ecosystems. About the Chemical & Biochemical Sciences Green Process Engineering (CBS) The Chemical & Biochemical Sciences Green Process Engineering Department (CBS) is a component of the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). The main objective of CBS is to set up a distinctive research-teaching program, of international level, to meet the research and teaching challenges of UM6P, on green and environmental chemistry applied to all aspects of chemical sciences: organic and inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, chemical biology, biochemical and thermal reactions. Research at CBS is organized around several major areas, which aim to answer challenging industrial questions, from complex chemical and biochemical reactions to scale-up and validation of process engineering. CBS projects aim at an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms of all transformations to propose new original alternatives in terms of efficiency, environmental friendliness, and sustainability. Job Description The CBS department at UM6P is seeking a highly motivated and qualified researcher for a Postdoctoral position in Hydrometallurgy with the common objective to develop sustainable recycling processes for separation and recovery of valuable and critical metals from various waste streams. The successful candidate will contribute significantly to advancing the department's research initiatives and supporting mission of research excellence and innovation. The work includes the design and experimental study of basic model as well as more applied systems. Key Responsibilities: Expertise in hydrometallurgy, and/or flotation, precipitation, etc. Strong academic credentials and scientific proficiency documented in publications. Strong laboratory/instrumental skills An analytical approach Awareness of diversity and equal treatment issues with a particular focus on gender equality Analyse experimental data, interpret results, and contribute to the development of new hypotheses and research directions.​ Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present research findings at national and international conferences.​ Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams within the department and with external partners to enhance research outcomes.​ Candidate Criteria A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree in chemistry, chemical engineering or hydrometallurgy. Research Excellence: A strong track record of high-quality research demonstrated through publications in reputable international journals. Collaborative Mindset: Proven ability to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams and external partners to address complex challenges. Communication Skills: Excellent communication and presentation skills in English. Proficiency in French a plus. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Alignment with UM6P's focus on entrepreneurship, Application and Selection: The application folder must contain: Detailed CV, Cover letter along with a comprehensive presentation of the candidate background, research work, projects, and key activities (publications and achievements) Research and teaching statement, entrepreneurial ideas, and concepts if any, and services to UM6P community: max 3-4 pages, 2 reference letters. Our Offer Very competitive salary and benefits package. A unique set of research partners and collaborators.

Job Title: IWRI - Postdoctoral researcher in Bioinspired circular conversion of multi-source biomass feedstocks for water-retentive agricultural systems Host Institute: Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), International Water Research Institute (IWRI) Field: Bioinspired Chemistry, Sustainable Materials, Water & Soil Interfaces Project Overview The International Water Research Institute (IWRI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join an interdisciplinary research program dedicated to the development of bioinspired, circular-economy-driven materials for water retention, soil hydration, and sustainable agriculture. The project aims to design next-generation supramolecular materials derived from biomass for applications in water stress mitigation, nutrient retention, and soil regeneration. This work directly contributes to water scarcity resilience and climate-smart agriculture. Job Qualifications PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field. Demonstrated experience in sustainable processing of multi-source biomass feedstocks and/or development of biobased/bio-inspired materials. Strong experience in Biopolymers, modification, and supramolecular assembly. Experience in developing biobased hydrogels or hydrated colloidal systems for water retention, soil improvement, or controlled release applications. Experience with biostimulants or eco-friendly soil conditioners is an asset. Hands-on experience with physicochemical characterization techniques such as FTIR, UV–Vis, XRD, DLS, SEM–EDS, TEM, TGA/DSC. Experience with greenhouse or laboratory experiments evaluating water retention, soil hydration, plant germination, or agronomic performance under water stress. Proven capacity to publish peer-reviewed scientific papers and deliver technical reports. Good publication track record in peer-reviewed journals. Strong communication skills in English (written and oral). Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary and multicultural team. Excellent networking ability and organizational skills. Experience in co-supervision and coordination of master/PhD students. Commitment to lab safety and research integrity. Key Responsibilities Conduct original, internationally competitive research on bioinspired materials, biostimulant matrices and water-retentive biobased systems for enhanced water–nutrient coupling. Develop nutrient (N, P)-enriched biostimulant matrices for enhanced water–nutrient coupling and improved plant nutrition. Design, synthesize, and optimize functional materials derived from renewable feedstock (marine and lignocellulosic) for applications in water retention, soil hydration, and nutrient stabilization. Conduct full physicochemical characterization: FTIR, UV–Vis, XRD, DLS, SEM–EDS, TEM, TGA/DSC. Prepare, submit, and publish high-impact peer-reviewed scientific articles, and present research findings at international conferences, workshops, and scientific meetings. Mentor and co-supervise Master’s and PhD students within the framework of research activities. Collaborate with internal and external researchers to reinforce interdisciplinary synergies across water sciences, materials chemistry, and sustainable agriculture. Communicate regularly with the research project team regarding the development, progress, challenges, and outcomes of research activities. Identify and implement areas of improvement within research workflows using integrated and statistical management approaches (DOE, optimization strategies) to strengthen capacity building and scientific rigor. Contribute actively to the preparation of research proposals for national and international competitive funding opportunities. Contribute to water-related innovation, technology transfer, and interdisciplinary projects at IWRI. Application Procedure Interested candidates should submit: Cover letter Curriculum Vitae Research statement List of publications Two references