Postdoctoral Researcher in Catalysis and Separation Chemical Engineering

Location: Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P)

Duration: [12–24 months, renewable based on performance]

Start Date: 01-09-2025

Field: Catalysis, separation Chemical Engineering

About UM6P:

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 ACER CoE:

The Applied Chemistry and Engineering Research center of Excellence (ACER CoE) is a hub and platform for R&D in Applied Chemistry and Engineering attracting highly talented researchers under transparent governance. ACER CoE encourages excellence in research and inter-program synergy and is instrumental in updating the research infrastructure, engaging specialists nationally and internationally. ACER CoE is a also a platform for young professors, researchers, and scientists to develop their research abilities in inter-disciplinary Environment.

Job Description:

The Applied Chemistry and Engineering Research center of Excellence (ACER CoE) at UM6P is seeking to appoint a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher possessing a strong academic foundation in catalysis/ separation and chemical/process engineering. The successful candidate will significantly contribute to the conception, synthesis, and evaluation of separation/catalytic systems aimed at advancing sustainable chemical processes, including but not restricted to carbon dioxide (CO₂) conversion, volatile organic compound (VOC) abatement, and hydrogen production/ storage…... The position requires proficiency in analyzing gas-phase reaction products utilizing gas chromatography and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Additionally, candidates should demonstrate comprehensive expertise in general material synthesis methodologies.

Candidate Profile:

• Hold a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Strong experience in separation sciences or heterogeneous catalysis and/or photocatalysis.
• Good expertise in the design of adsorption/catalytic reactors.
• Proficient in analytical techniques for adsorbent. catalyst and product characterization.
• Knowledge of process modeling software (e.g., Aspen Plus, COMSOL, or equivalent) is a plus.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary and multicultural team.

Skills:

• Strong expertise in heterogeneous catalysis/adsorption fundamentals.
• Skilled in process modeling software.
• Proficiency in chromatographic and FTIR analytical techniques.
• Skilled in analytical methods for catalytic/separation agents materials characterization.
• Solid understanding of chemical kinetics principles.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and optimize adsorbent catalytic materials (e.g., heterogeneous catalysts, supported metal catalysts, photocatalysts).
• Design experimental setups for gas-phase and liquid-phase catalytic reactions.
• Conduct kinetic and mechanistic studies under realistic process conditions.
• Perform process simulations and scale-up assessments.
• Use advanced characterization techniques (XRD, BET, SEM, TPR, GC-MS, etc.).
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and contribute to scientific publications.
• Support the preparation of funding proposals and technical reports.