SusMaT-RC - Postdoc Position: Bio-based Materials for Sustainable Agriculture

About Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P)

Located at the heart of the Green City of Benguerir, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is an institution dedicated to world-class education, applied research, and innovation for Morocco and Africa. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a vast network of academic and industrial partners, UM6P is committed to advancing sustainable development and building a thriving innovation ecosystem on the continent.

About the Sustainable Materials Research Center (SusMat - RC)

The Sustainable Materials Research Center (SusMat-RC) is a multidisciplinary research centre focused on the development of advanced materials from renewable bio-resources. Our mission spans from fundamental science, understanding structure-property relationships at multiple scales to applied engineering, creating sustainable solutions for key industrial and environmental challenges. We aim to drive the transition toward a circular and green economy in Morocco and across Africa through innovative material science.

Job description

An exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Fellow (PDF) to join the Sustainable Materials Research Center (SusMat-RC) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P).

The selected candidate will contribute to a pioneering research project focused on developing advanced bioinspired, circular-economy-driven biobased functional materials for sustainable agriculture, with a specific focus on water–soil interfaces, water retention, fertilizer/nutrient-controlled release, and soil hydration using multi-source biomass feedstocks. 

Job duties

The successful candidate is expected to:

• Design, formulate, and characterize biobased materials such as hydrogels, polymers, and composites for agricultural applications.
• Develop and optimize protocols for the encapsulation and controlled release of nutrients.
• Investigate water-use efficiency, soil moisture dynamics, and nutrient availability in water-retentive and responsive systems, with relevance to arid and semi-arid agricultural conditions.
• Utilize a variety of analytical, spectroscopic, and microscopic techniques (FTIR, UV–Vis, XRD, DLS, SEM–EDS, TEM, TGA/DSC) for material characterization.
• Collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary team.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all experiments, data, and findings.
• Prepare manuscripts for high-impact scientific journals and present research at national and international conferences.
• Contribute to the development of research proposals and seek external funding.
• Assist in the supervision of master's and doctoral students.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, ideal candidate is expected to have:

• A recently awarded Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in polymer/hydrogel synthesis, biopolymer modification, development of water-retentive formulation, and characterization.
• Experience or strong interest in sustainable agriculture, controlled-release systems, soil science interfaces, or water management in water-limited environments is an advantage.
• Proven ability to conduct independent research with a strong publication record.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team.
• High degree of motivation, initiative, and a focus on quality research outputs.
• Proficient oral and written communication skills in English.

How to apply

Please submit the following documents in a single PDF file:

1. An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
2. A one-page cover letter addressing:
   • How your research background and skills align with this specific project.
   • Your motivation for applying to this position and the SusMat-RC.
3. Contact information for two professional referees.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. An early application is encouraged.