CBS: Post-Doctoral Researcher Position in Electrochemistry

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 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, electrochemistry, analytical chemistry, chemical biology and process engineering.

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 motivated and qualified post-doctoral researcher to join our research team for a groundbreaking project focused on the development of green and sustainable electrochemical methodologies for the synthesis of phosphorus derivatives. This research project aims to address the growing demand for phosphorus-based chemicals while mitigating the environmental impact associated with their production. Expertise in molten salt and/or phosphate electrochemistry would be a plus for this position.

Responsibilities:

As a Post-Doctoral Researcher, your responsibilities will include:

Green Electrochemical Synthesis: Conducting research to establish innovative and environmentally friendly electrochemical procedures for the production of green phosphorus intermediates, focusing on the creation of various P-X bonds using electrochemical redox reactions, sequential in-situ transformations, catalysis, and other related techniques.

Experimental Validation: Designing and conducting experiments at laboratory and pilot scales to validate the feasibility and scalability of the developed processes for potential industrial applications. Analysis and Characterization: Employing a wide range of analytical techniques, including EM, SEM, AFM, XPS, UV-Vis, IR, cyclic voltammetry, and NMR to comprehensively characterize synthesized compounds and intermediates.

Synthesis and Mechanistic Design: Contributing to the design and synthesis of novel phosphorus derivatives while gaining insights into mechanistic aspects of the electrochemical reactions.

Sustainability: Ensuring that all research activities align with green and sustainable principles, with a focus on minimizing the carbon footprint of phosphorus derivative synthesis.

Publication and Reporting: Collaborating with the research team to write scientific reports, prepare research publications, and effectively present results and data analysis in both French

Candidate Criteria

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Electrochemistry, or a related field, with a strong background in electrochemical methods.
• Proven experience in the development of green and sustainable electrochemical methodologies, and electrochemical synthesis.
• Solid knowledge of electrochemistry, chemical analyses, and structural characterizations using techniques such as EM, SEM, AFM, XPS, UV-Vis, IR, cyclic voltammetry, NMR, etc. 
• Motivated, adaptable, and able to work collaboratively within a research team.
• Proficiency in scientific writing, report preparation, and communication skills in both French and English.

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,
• 2 reference letters.