CAES – Postdoctoral researcher in Modeling and quantitative analysis for efficient use and sustainable management of water at the Farm-Scale in semi-arid regions

Job Description:

University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) is seeking qualified applicants for a postdoctoral position in modeling and quantitative analysis for water management at the Farm-Scale. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing codes and conducting analysis for efficient management of water which is key to adapting African agriculture to climate variability and its impact on water resources. The objective of the research is to use an integrated approach combining numerical and analytical techniques, simulations and analysis of available experimental data to study and provide efficient solutions for sustainable management of water at the farm-scale. Our goal is to create a scalable and cost-effective distributed water capture and storage solution that minimizes evaporation where we will use a local storage facility for water from stormflows for irrigation in semi-arid regions.

First, we will improve the coupled numerical model that we have developed for surface and subsurface flows. We will use finite volumes methods combined with physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) which offer a flexible technique that merges data-driven approaches with the underlying physics principles, enabling the direct incorporation of physical laws or constraints into the neural network training process. To achieve our goal, we will conduct analysis of several surface water management scenarios in different regions in Morocco using the coupled numerical model for surface-subsurface flows over variable topography with rainfall-runoff and evapotranspiration processes, and determine in which regions in Morocco the proposed solution is cost effective.

Key duties:

The successful candidate will:

• Develop numerical techniques
• Implement codes 
• Collect data from Hydraulic Basin Agencies in Morocco
• Calibrate and validate the coupled numerical model
• Perform numerical simulations in different regions of Morocco
• Study the proposed solution of storage of water from stormflows for irrigation in semi-arid regions
• Determine in which regions the solution is cost effective
• Write and contribute to scientific articles and reports
• Contribute to the development of research projects and funding applications

Selection Criteria and Skills of the Candidate:

• Completed a PhD in engineering, applied physics, applied mathematics, or a related field.
• Strong quantitative skills and modeling 
• Advanced coding skills
• Fluent (oral and writing) in English
• Enjoys collaborative work and interdisciplinary research projects
• Strong organizational skills and capacity to meet deadlines effectively

Application:

Applications must include the following: (1) Cover Letter. (2) Curriculum Vitae. (3) Three references.

About University Mohammed VI Polytechnic:

Located at the heart of the future Green City of Benguerir, University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P), a higher institution dedicated to research and education with an international standard, has been established to serve Morocco and the African continent. Its vision is honed around research and innovation at the service of education and development. This unique nascent university, with its state-of-the-art campus and infrastructure, has woven a sound academic and research network, and its recruitment process is seeking high quality academics and professionals in order to boost its quality-oriented research environment in the metropolitan area of Marrakech. UM6P aspires to leave its mark nationally, continentally, and globally.