"Postdoctoral Fellow - Identification and Valorization of Moroccan Phytoplankton"

Job Description

The CBS is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Fellow to join a multidisciplinary research team focused on the identification and valorization of Moroccan phytoplankton, with a particular emphasis on algal biomass. The successful candidate will be responsible for the extraction, fractionation, and isolation of bioactive compounds from various algal species. They will apply advanced spectroscopic and analytical techniques to characterize the chemical structure of these metabolites and evaluate their biological potential. The overarching goal is to explore and promote the use of these compounds in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and agri-food applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct extraction and fractionation of bioactive metabolites from algal biomass.
• Isolate and purify target compounds using chromatographic techniques.
• Perform structural elucidation using advanced spectral and analytical tools (e.g., LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, NMR).
• Evaluate biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, etc.
• Contribute to the development of value-added products based on algal metabolites.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations related to the project outcomes.
• Support the development of sustainable and scalable valorization strategies for Moroccan phytoplankton resources.

Candidate Criteria

• Ph.D. in Phytochemistry, Natural Products Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Solid experience in natural product extraction, purification, and metabolite identification.
• Proficiency in the use of LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, NMR, and relevant data analysis software (e.g., MestReNova, Thermo scientific, Shimadzu, MS-FINDER, and MZmine, platforms).
• Familiarity with bioactivity assays and screening protocols is an asset.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently and within a team. Excellent scientific writing and communication skills.
• A good track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals

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,
• 3 reference letters.