University of Missouri-Kansas City

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. Job Purpose The Research Fellow will lead the development of a Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) biosensor platform for rapid detection of microbial bioburden in biopharmaceutical cleaning validation processes. The role involves aptamer discovery, nanomaterial-based SERS sensor development, and integration with microfluidic systems for real-time monitoring of cleaning validation washout fluids. Opportunities to contribute to patent filings, translational research, and commercialization pathways will be available. Key Responsibilities Technical Responsibilities Design and screen high-affinity ssDNA aptamers targeting environmental microorganisms listed in the US Pharmacopeia. Develop nanoparticle-based SERS substrates (Ag/Au nanoclusters) for enhanced Raman signal detection. Design and fabricate microfluidic sensing interfaces for continuous monitoring of cleaning validation fluids. Perform sensor validation using Raman spectroscopy, microbial cultures, and cleaning validation samples. Develop data analysis pipelines for Raman spectral classification, potentially integrating machine learning methods. Research & Project Responsibilities Plan and execute experimental workflows to achieve project milestones. Lead prototype development and performance optimization of the SERS biosensor system. Communicate research outcomes through technical reports, conference presentations, and scientific publications. Collaborate with industry partners and interdisciplinary research teams where applicable. Operational Responsibilities Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with Work Safety and Health (WSH) regulations. Manage procurement of specialized equipment and research consumables. Mentorship Mentor research engineers, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers. Contribute to training activities within the research group. Others To communicate in any relevant internal or external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Any ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor. Job Requirements Essential PhD in Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Analytical Chemistry, or related fields. Strong publication record in biosensors, nanomaterials, Raman spectroscopy, or microfluidics. Demonstrated experience in nanoparticle-based biosensor development or SERS sensing platforms. Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for microfluidic device design. Experience with Raman spectroscopy instrumentation and spectral data analysis. Preferred Experience in microfluidic chip fabrication (soft lithography, PDMS, or micro-machining). Experience with aptamer selection or molecular recognition elements. Experience applying machine learning to spectral data (Raman, LC–MS, or similar). Experience working on translational or industry-linked research projects.

About 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, UM6P promotes transdisciplinary, entrepreneurship and collaboration with external institutions for developing up to date science and at continent level 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 ACER: The center 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, Physics, Chemical Engineering, and Environmental Engineering focusing on different research fields such as catalysis, separation, energy generation, conversion and storage, Plasma Science and its applications, and organic optoelectronics intelligent and advanced polymers and materials Postdoctoral Career Opportunity: Non-Thermal Plasma-Based Hydrogen (H2) Production Department: The Applied Chemistry and Engineering Research Center of Excellence (ACER-CoE), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) Research topic: Plasma Physics, Chemical Engineering, Energy & Sustainability Title of research project: Non-Thermal Plasma-Based Hydrogen (H2) Production Description of the Research Project: We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on plasma-driven hydrogen (H2) production. The project focuses on developing innovative methods for hydrogen generation using non-thermal plasma, both with and without catalytic materials. Plasma technologies offer a promising route for sustainable hydrogen production because they can activate molecules and drive chemical reactions at relatively low temperatures and atmospheric pressure. The successful candidate will investigate plasma processes for hydrogen production, including the role of plasma-generated reactive species and the interaction between plasma and catalytic surfaces. The research will explore how operating conditions such as gas composition, discharge power, pressure, and reactor configuration influence hydrogen production efficiency. The project will combine plasma reactor development, plasma diagnostics, and materials characterization. Techniques such as optical emission spectroscopy (OES) and laser diagnostic tools will be used to study plasma properties and reaction pathways. Catalysts materials will be analyzed using appropriate characterization techniques. Several plasma sources are already operating at the ACER CoE, together with optical and laser diagnostic systems. The goal of this research is to improve the understanding of plasma chemistry and plasma-catalyst interactions in order to develop more efficient and sustainable hydrogen production technologies. Key duties: Design and operate non-thermal plasma reactors Study the influence of operating conditions (gas composition, power, and reactor configuration) on hydrogen production. Investigate plasma-catalyst interactions and reaction mechanisms Use optical and laser diagnostic techniques to characterize plasma and quantify reactive species. Material characterization techniques using: XRD, SEM, FTIR, ICP-OES Requirements: PhD in Plasma Science, Chemical Engineering, or related fields Candidate Profile PhD in Plasma Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related fields Strong interest in plasma processes, energy conversion, and catalysis Experience in spectroscopy and reactor design Very good programming and user skills in Python, MATLAB, LABVIEW or comparable technical computing and simulation environments Experience in laser spectroscopy is an advantage Familiar with material characterization such as XRD, SEM, FTIR, ICP-OES Good English communication skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and within a team We offer ACER CoE is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will benefit from systematic trainings, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure. For further information, please contact (et-touhami.es-sebbar@um6p.ma) Starting date: Immediately, but it can be postponed to May 2026. Application documents: Cover letter, Detailed CV with the list of publications, and contact information for 2-3 references

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is an institution dedicated to research and innovation in Africa, aiming to position itself among the world’s leading universities in its fields. The University is committed to economic and human development and places research and innovation at the heart of Africa’s progress. This approach enables UM6P to strengthen Morocco’s leadership in these areas through a unique model based on partnerships and by fostering the development of skills essential for Africa’s future. Located in the municipality of Benguerir, at the heart of the Green City, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University aspires to make a lasting impact at the national, continental, and global levels. About ARC_AIR – African Research Center on Air Quality and Climate: The African Research Center on Air Quality and Climate (ARC_AIR) is a research unit within UM6P dedicated to advancing scientific understanding and innovative solutions in the fields of air quality, atmospheric chemistry, and climate. ARC_AIR’s mission is to support sustainable development in Africa through high-impact research, capacity building, and technology transfer. The center brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers, engineers, and students working on addressing environmental challenges such as industrial emissions, urban pollution, and climate change impacts. ARC_AIR also collaborates closely with national and international partners to strengthen Africa’s contribution to global atmospheric science and to develop tools and strategies that guide evidence-based policymaking. Monitoring The African Research Center on Air Quality and Climate (ARC_Air) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research position monitoring agricultural emissions across Africa using satellite remote sensing, atmospheric modeling, and deep learning. Research Focus Estimate cropland emissions (NH3, N2O, CO2, CH4) using satellite observations, atmospheric chemistry models, and physics-informed deep learning, validated through field campaigns. Key Responsibilities Conduct atmospheric chemistry simulations Develop deep learning models for emission predictions Participate in field campaigns across Africa Publish in high-impact journals Contribute to data visualization platforms Required Qualifications Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science, Environmental Science, Remote Sensing, or related field Experience in atmospheric modeling, satellite remote sensing, or machine learning Programming skills (Python or R) Strong publication record