Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico

Location: ASARI Institute, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Laayoune, Morocco Position overview: The ASARI Institute at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Fellow in Plant Nutrition and Fertilization. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at developing sustainable soil fertility management systems for marginal agricultural soils, particularly under conditions of salinity and drought. The research will focus on the use of phosphate rock (RP) and its integration with diverse cropping systems, including legumes, cereals, grasses, and vegetables. The appointed candidate will conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory trials, analyze data, and publish findings in high-impact journals. The role requires active participation in an interdisciplinary team to evaluate and optimize integrated soil fertility management strategies. Key duties and responsibilities: Research implementation: Design and conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of phosphate rock (RP) and other fertilization strategies in improving soil fertility and crop productivity. Investigate the interactions between soil amendments, cropping systems, and environmental stressors (salinity, drought) on plant nutrition and growth. Crop and soil analysis: Perform detailed analyses of plant tissues, soils, and fertilizers to assess nutrient uptake, soil health, and fertilizer efficiency. Use advanced analytical techniques to measure nutrient availability, soil microbial activity, and plant responses. Data management and analysis: Collect, manage, and analyze experimental data using statistical and modeling tools. Interpret results to draw meaningful conclusions and develop recommendations for sustainable agricultural practices. Publication and dissemination: Prepare high-quality research papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Present findings at national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars. Interdisciplinary collaboration: Work closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, agronomists, and environmental specialists to develop integrated soil fertility management systems. Collaborate with local and international partners to align research objectives with global sustainability goals. Project management: Contribute to the planning, execution, and reporting of research projects. Ensure timely delivery of project milestones and deliverables. Mentorship and training: Supervise and mentor PhD students and research assistants involved in the project. Provide training on experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific writing. Requirements: Educational background: A Ph.D. in Plant Nutrition, Soil Science, Agronomy, Crop Science, or a closely related field. Research experience: Proven experience in conducting field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments related to plant nutrition, soil fertility, and fertilization. Familiarity with marginal agricultural soils, particularly under salinity and drought conditions, is highly desirable. Technical skills: Proficiency in soil and plant analysis techniques (e.g., nutrient quantification, soil microbial assays). Experience with statistical software (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS) and data modeling tools. Knowledge of integrated soil fertility management and sustainable agricultural practices. Publication record: A good track record of publishing research in reputable, peer-reviewed journals. Interpersonal and communication skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (knowledge of French or Arabic is an advantage). Ability to work effectively in a multicultural, interdisciplinary team environment. Personal attributes: Highly motivated, organized, and detail-oriented. Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to research challenges. Working conditions: The position is based at the ASARI Institute in Laayoune, Morocco, with potential fieldwork in marginal and desert agricultural regions. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. Application Process: Interested candidates should submit the following documents: A detailed CV, including a list of publications. A cover letter outlining research interests, relevant experience, and motivation for applying. Contact information for at least three professional references. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative research in sustainable agriculture and soil fertility management, with the potential to make a significant impact on food security and environmental sustainability in marginal regions.

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 internal and external institutions for developing up to date scientific research 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, in particular 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 in order to propose new original alternatives in terms of efficiency, environmental friendliness and sustainability. Job Description   We are seeking a highly qualified Assistant Professor in Environmental Chemistry to join our research and teaching team. The successful candidate will develop innovative projects related to waste management (solid, liquid, and gaseous), air and water pollution control, and sustainable treatment solutions, particularly in relation to phosphate industry challenges, including odor control and emissions reduction. Responsibilities: Develop and lead research projects in environmental chemistry, with a focus on industrial applications related to phosphate processing, odor emissions, and air and water pollution control. Design innovative solutions for waste treatment, emission reduction, and odor mitigation in industrial settings. Teach courses related to green chemistry, environmental analysis, and chemical engineering. Supervise master's, Ph.D., and postdoctoral students. Collaborate with industrial partners, particularly in the phosphate sector, to develop sustainable environmental solutions. Contribute to the academic and scientific life of UM6P. Candidate Criteria   Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. Significant experience in applied research on waste management, industrial pollution control, and odor mitigation technologies. Expertise in environmental analysis and modeling tools (quantitative analysis of solid, liquid, and gaseous samples). Experience in addressing environmental challenges specific to phosphate industries is highly desirable. Experience in radiochemistry and radionuclides is a plus. Ability to work both independently and within a team. Excellent communication skills and commitment to student training and supervision.   Application and Selection: The application folder must contain: Detailed CV, Cover letter along with a synthetic presentation of the background, research works, projects and activities, publications, key achievements,  Research and teaching plans, entrepreneurial ideas and concepts if any, and services to UM6P community: max 3-4 pages,  3 reference letters.

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 CBS seeking a dynamic and qualified individual to fill the position of Professor in Coordination Chemistry and Phosphorus-Based Materials. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing the Department of Chemistry and the university's mission, particularly in research excellence, teaching, and innovation. Research: Conduct high-impact research in the field of inorganic and coordination chemistry with a focus on green and sustainable processes. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to address real-world challenges and contribute to the development of novel solutions. Secure external funding for research projects and publish research findings in reputable international journals. Teaching: Design and deliver engaging and innovative courses related to inorganic and coordination chemistry at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Foster an interactive and inclusive learning environment that promotes critical thinking and student engagement. Mentor students in research projects and provide academic guidance Collaboration: Collaborate with colleagues within the department and across other relevant disciplines to promote interdisciplinary research and initiatives. Engage in external collaborations with industry partners, research institutions, and organizations to enhance the impact of research Candidate Criteria PhD degree in Chemistry, with a specialization in inorganic coordination chemistry or a closely related area, is required. Research Excellence: A strong track record of high-quality research demonstrated through publications in reputable international journals, patents, active participation in research projects, and securing research funding. Teaching Experience: Prior experience in teaching and curriculum development, preferably at the university level. A commitment to innovative teaching methodologies and fostering interactive learning environments. 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 is a plus. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Alignment with UM6P's focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and applied research. Commitment to Diversity: Demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in research, teaching, and service. 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, 3 reference letters. Our Offer Very competitive salary and benefits package. A unique set of research partners and collaborators. Access to a pool of highly motivated and rigorously selected Master and PhD students with financial support.