"Full-time Professor in Environmental Molecular Physico-Chemistry"

The Global Critical Zone Science Chair at the Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) invites applications for a full-time professor position in Environmental Molecular Physico-Chemistry (open rank). The successful applicant will conduct research in molecular physico-chemistry to understand and model water-solids interactions in designing and developing sustainable agricultural systems, from deep soil to top soil and their inter-relationships with vegetation or crops. This includes understanding the influence of these processes on soil health, nutrient and fertilizer cycling, carbon sequestration for climate warming abatement, and the fate of metals and toxic elements in the critical zone to inform new farming systems and practices for various edaphoclimatic conditions.

The appointed professor will develop an internationally recognized research program integrating advanced X-ray and vibrational spectroscopy, electron microscopic, and computational approaches to study the chemical speciation, bioavailability, and environmental fate of metals and metalloids in soil-plant systems. Preferred experience includes research on element speciation, contaminant remediation, soil-mineral interactions, fertilizer formulation and soil fertility analysis, use of DGT and other in situ systems, and application of quantum chemistry modeling tools like FDMNES, ORCA, FEFF9, and GAUSS. Experience in leading interdisciplinary research consortia is also valued.

Key duties include initiating and leading joint research projects in geochemistry, generating external research funds, establishing international collaborations, supervising students and postdocs, publishing in high-impact journals, teaching courses on physico-chemistry, geochemistry, biogeochemical cycling, and related topics, translating scientific knowledge into soil and agricultural management practices, organizing datasets and modeling efforts, conducting fieldwork in Africa, and supporting the Chair's goals.

Candidates must hold a PhD in environmental science, soil science, surface geochemistry, molecular physico-chemistry, nanoscience, or related fields, with at least 2 years of postdoctoral experience, preferably international. Requirements include a high publication record (at least 10 publications in the last 3 years), expertise in spectroscopic techniques and modeling, excellent English communication skills, proficiency in field and lab work, a good funding record, and qualities like proactivity, ethics, and organizational skills.

This position offers opportunities to contribute to sustainable agriculture and environmental protection, working collaboratively with university departments such as Geology, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, and others. The role involves advising students, teaching graduate courses, and engaging with the Chair’s scientific committee.