"Postdoctoral Researcher in Exploration of Moroccan sulfur resources in the sedimentary realm"

Duration of the position:

2 years (24 months), full-time.

Location:

Benguerir, Morocco.

Starting date:

As soon as possible.

Job Description

The Geology and Sustainable Mining Institute (GSMI) department at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is seeking applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the field of Exploration of Moroccan sulfur resources in the sedimentary realm, within the framework of the OCP Sulfur 360° initiative.

The successful candidate will contribute to a national-scale assessment of biogenic sulfur potential in Moroccan sedimentary basins. His work will combine GIS-based data collection and integration, fieldwork, mineralogical and geochemical characterization (gypsum, anhydrite, native sulfur).

Ability to engage professionally with a diverse population of faculty, staff, students, and industrial partners (notably OCP) is required.

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

Key Duties

The successful candidate is expected to:

• Contribute to the construction of a national GIS-based database of sulfur occurrences and sulfur-bearing formations in Moroccan sedimentary basins (integration of geological, geophysical, geochemical and industrial data).
• Participate in the definition and refinement of exploration criteria and ranking methodology for native sulfur prospects (geological, mineralogical, geochemical, and structural controls).
• Plan and conduct field campaigns in selected basins (e.g., Neogene basins in the Rif, other prospective sedimentary basins) through sedimentological logging and systematic sampling.
• Coordinate and monitor laboratory analyses (in collaboration with GSMI platforms and external labs): Major elements (XRF-WDS); Total sulfur (C–S elemental analyzer); Minor and trace elements (ICP–MS); Sulfur isotopes (EA–IRMS)
• Integrate and interpret multidisciplinary datasets to characterize controls on native sulfur formation, produce prospectivity and risk maps at basin and national scale and contribute to the prioritization of sulfur targets and to the preparation of a ranked list of prospective areas.
• Prepare technical reports and deliverables for the project (including national-scale maps, databases, and synthesis documents) in line with the project Gantt and milestones.
• Publish scientific results in peer‑reviewed journals in a timely manner and contribute to at least one Q1 publication.

Selection Criteria

The position is open to candidates holding a PhD degree in Geology, Earth Sciences, Geochemistry, Sedimentology, Mining/Georesources Engineering, or a closely related discipline.

• Demonstrated expertise in at least two of the following areas:
• Sedimentary basin analysis and stratigraphy.
• Evaporite systems (gypsum, anhydrite) and/or diagenetic processes.
• Economic geology of sulfur or related mineral resources.
• Geochemical characterization of rocks and minerals (XRF, ICP‑MS, elemental analyzers, isotopes).
• Proven fieldwork experience in sedimentary geology and/or mineral exploration (mapping, logging, sampling, structural and stratigraphic observations).
• Ability to perform quantitative data analysis and integration, including QA/QC of analytical datasets and interpretation in a process‑based geological framework.
• Good written and spoken English and French, as well as solid presentation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, with an ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Familiarity with Moroccan or North African geology is an advantage but not mandatory.

About UM6P

Located at the heart of the future Green City of Benguerir, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), a higher education institution with an international standard, is established to serve Morocco and the African continent. Its vision is honed around research and innovation at the service of education and development. This unique nascent university, with its state-of-the-art campus and infrastructure, has woven a sound academic and research network, and its recruitment process is seeking high quality academics and professionals in order to boost its quality-oriented research environment.

UM6P is a very ambitious university, enjoying ample research funding, moderate teaching load, and excellent facilities.

In its research approach, the UM6P promotes transdisciplinary, entrepreneurship spirit and collaboration with external institutions, both international ones for developing up to date science, and at continent level to address real African challenges.

UM6P offers highly competitive salaries at the international level. Our researchers get incentives through participation to the intellectual property they develop.

About GSMI

The Geology and Sustainable Mining Institute (GSMI) entity at UM6P focuses on fundamental and applied research in geology, mineral resources, and sustainable mining. GSMI aims to support responsible exploitation and valorization of natural resources in Morocco and Africa by leveraging cutting‑edge science in:

• Sedimentology and basin analysis.
• Economic geology and mineral exploration.
• Geochemistry and geo‑metallurgy.
• Modeling and integration of geological, geophysical, and geochemical data.

Within the Sulfur 360° initiative, GSMI works closely with OCP and other partners to develop innovative approaches for sulfur exploration, valorization, and strategic mineral sovereignty.

Application Process

Applications should contain the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (including list of publications).
• A cover letter (maximum 1 page) explaining the motivation for the position and how the candidate’s profile fits the objectives of the project “Exploration of Moroccan sulfur resources in the sedimentary realm”.
• Contact information of 3 references (Applicants are assumed to have obtained their referees’ consent to be contacted.)

Applications are to be submitted on the UM6P recruitment platform