AGBS - Postdoc Biosurfactants

AgroBioSciences Program (AgBS)

College of Sustainable Agriculture & Environmental Sciences (CSAES)

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University

Host institution: 

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.

Host program:

College of sustainable agriculture and environmental sciences, AgroBiosciences Program, Natural resources, and by-products valorization sub-program.

Job description:

We are seeking a highly motivated and qualified post-doctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary research group for an exciting project on biosurfactants production and characterization foreseeing agricultural application. The selected candidate is expected to:

• Develop optimized processes for the microbial synthesis, extraction, and purification of plant and microbial-based biosurfactants from agro-industrial by-products.

• Characterize the physicochemical properties of the developed biosurfactants and their potential impact on agricultural indicators, such as soil wettability, nutrients bioavailability, and pesticides adhesion.

• Develop bio-formulations incorporating the biosurfactants and standardization of their production, storage, and application conditions.

• Supervision of graduate and postgraduate research projects;

• Co and lead-authorship of project reports, presentations and published papers;

Selection criteria:

• PhD in microbial biotechnology, biochemistry, or a foundational discipline relevant to the topic. 

• Strong background in applied microbiology. 

• Solid experience in fermentation technology including microbial reactor design and parameters optimization;  

• Experience in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and biostatistics. 

• Experience in chemical characterization techniques is considered as advantages.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams and collaborate with national and international partners.

• Excellent communication skills in English and French, both written and verbal.

• A track record of publication in well ranked journals.

Application documents:

• Covering letter

• A detailed CV including the list of publications;

• A synthetic description of research background, relevant research projects and activities, key publications and achievements, and future research interests;

• Contact detailed for two reference persons;

• Other documents that the candidate considers important for the recruitment process.

Selection process: 

The applications will be reviewed by a scientific committee. Eligible candidates will be invited for an interview.