"Full-time Professor in Environmental Stoichiometry"

The Global Critical Zone Science Chair at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) invites applications for a full-time professor position in Environmental Stoichiometry (open rank). The successful applicant will conduct research in Environmental Stoichiometry aiming to understand the stoichiometric mechanisms controlling the fate and behavior of organic C in the soils (top soil and deep soil), with a particular focus on phosphorus limitation. Due to the influence of the Northern Hemisphere (cool and temperate climatic zones), where plant biomass growth is limited by N, there is a consensus that N (C/N) has a strong control over C sequestration as soil organic matter worldwide. However, as P is the most limiting nutrient for plant biomass production particularly in the Tropical Belt of Northern and Southern Hemispheres, there is growing evidence that P limitation is controlling several biogeochemical cycles, particularly those related to the formation of soil organic matter and the release of CO2, N2O, and CH4 mediated by the microorganisms. The applicant must have great modeling expertise to translate these findings into models that will allow us to improve carbon sequestration as soil organic matter in the P deficient and highly weathered soils of the tropics. This knowledge will support our efforts towards understanding and managing the critical zone to build sustainable societies. The successful applicant should have a good experience in environmental stoichiometry and modeling of environmental processes, which will be very useful to aggregate all the knowledge being generated.

Other duties include advising students and postdocs, teaching graduate courses at UM6P, support the overall activities of the Chair and have a close relationship/follow up with the Chair’s scientific committee. The incumbent will work in close collaboration with the different groups and departments of the university, including the Geology Department, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, International Water Research Institute, African Genome Center, Chemical and Biological Sciences, and Material Science, among others.

Evidence of research and teaching excellence is expected. Strong English communication skills, both verbal and written, are required.

• Initiate, develop, and lead joint research projects and programs in environmental stoichiometry in collaboration with a multidisciplinary consortium in the field.
• Generate external research funds to support and maintain integrated research programs.
• Establish collaboration and partnerships with great international scientific institutes.
• Supervise graduate students, develop teaching materials, and attract high level-students.
• Publish in well ranked and high impact-factor journals.
• Teach and develop research regarding the principles of environmental stoichiometry; biogeochemical cycling of elements; fundamental biological and chemical processes controlling organic carbon sequestration in the soil; use of state-of-the-art spectroscopic and isotopic techniques; and modeling.
• Translate the basic scientific knowledge generate from the above-mentioned disciplines into sound management practices on how to better manage our soils and agricultural systems.
• Stay up to date with all current environmental science research.
• Organize datasets and modelling efforts and support the development of long-term trials.
• Willing to travel for some time to develop field work in the African continent and to visit other international institutions and partners.
• Support the fulfillment of the goals and mission of the Global Critical Zone Science Chair.

Criteria of the candidate:

• PhD in environmental science, soil science, surface geochemistry, or related fields from a recognized university.
• At least 2 years of postdoctoral research experience in environmental sciences within the above-mentioned subjects, preferably with international experience.
• High publication record in international well-ranked journals (at least 10 publications in the last 3 years).
• Significant research record and leadership in molecular environmental science studies, including the use of state-of-the-art spectroscopic and isotopic techniques and modeling capabilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Skilled in both field and lab work.
• Good record of funding.
• Proactive, ethic, and respectful person.
• Organizational dexterity, ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects.
• Maintains positive attitude in fast-paced changing environments.