About UM6P:
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 AGBS:
The AgroBioSciences (AgBS) program is a component of the Science & Technology pole of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). It constitutes a structure of higher education and practical-based research with a vision of solving real African agriculture challenges by leveraging up-to-date science and technology.
The AgroBiosciences Program Research Center leverages up-to-date technologies to address African agriculture challenges. It is a multidisciplinary research center that aims to conduct relevant, cutting-edge research that positively impacts African agriculture. It is based on the collaboration and synergy of several research programs targeting diverse disciplines of research in agriculture, such as
Microbiome, Omics, Plant Physiology and Crop Improvement, Plant Pathology, By-products Valorization, Soil Sciences, Agronomy, and Sustainable Farming…
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral researcher to join our research team within the AgroBioSciences Program at UM6P. The successful candidate will contribute to an innovative research project focused on the development of fully biodegradable nutrient carriers and soil amendments derived from agricultural waste. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of materials science, polymer chemistry, and sustainable agriculture, addressing critical challenges in nutrient use efficiency, water scarcity, and soil health.
The candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing research objectives aimed at designing and evaluating highly porous biosolid carriers capable of delivering both immediate and slow-release fertilization while substantially improving soil water retention. The work will involve the synthesis, characterization, and agronomic evaluation of biopolymer-based carriers, with a focus on their application in drought-prone agricultural systems.
Key Responsibilities
Research Activities
- Extract and functionalize biopolymers from agricultural and marine biomass and develop carrier formulations using crosslinking techniques such as ionotropic gelation and freeze-drying, including composite carriers incorporating biochar for controlled nutrient release.
- Perform comprehensive physicochemical characterization using FTIR, SEM/TEM/AFM, BET surface area and porosity analysis, XRD, TGA/DSC, and zeta potential measurements.
- Develop encapsulation strategies for NPK nutrients, quantify loading capacity and release kinetics in water and soil using UV-Vis and ICP-OES, model release profiles, and investigate the effects of thermochemical treatment on release behavior.
- Design and conduct greenhouse experiments under different moisture regimes, assess plant growth parameters, physiological stress markers (proline, MDA, antioxidant enzymes), and nutrient uptake, while monitoring soil hydro-physical properties and biodegradability.
- Perform robust statistical analyses, prepare high-quality manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, present findings at conferences, and contribute to project reports and deliverables.
- Work closely with interdisciplinary teams (agronomists, soil scientists, polymer chemists), supervise PhD and Master's students, and contribute to proposal writing and technology transfer activities.
Candidate Profile
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, with a strong focus on porous materials (biochars, biopolymer-based carriers) for agricultural or environmental applications.
- Proven experience in biopolymer extraction and functionalization
- Strong expertise in material characterization techniques (FTIR, SEM/TEM, BET, TGA, XRD…..).
- Experience in nutrient loading and controlled release studies.
- Demonstrated ability to design and conduct greenhouse experiments and evaluate plant growth and soil properties.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Knowledge of porous carrier synthesis.
- Familiarity with pyrolysis and biochar production from biobased materials.
- Experience with statistical analysis software (R, SPSS, or equivalent).
- Strong track record of peer-reviewed publications in relevant fields.
- Excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and autonomy.
- Effective written and oral communication skills in English.
- Prior experience in project management, grant writing, or supervision is desirable but not required.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates should submit the following documents in a single PDF file:
- A cover letter outlining your research experience, specific interest in the position, and how your skills align with the project objectives.
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) including a full list of publications.
- Contact information for three professional references (including current/previous supervisors).
Application Deadline: September 6, 2026
Position Type: Postdoctoral Researcher (CDD)
Duration: 1 years (renewable)
