Scientist - Fertilizer Science - Benguerir

Job Title: Scientist – Fertilizer Science

Chair of Soil Sciences (CSS)

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 boost skills training relevant for the future of Africa.

Located in the municipality of Ben Guerir, in the very heart of the Green City, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University aspires to leave its mark nationally, continentally, and globally.

Area of Specialization:

The incumbent will join the Chair of Soil Science as a Scientist in Fertilizer Science, which encompasses a diverse spectrum of expertise. This specialization includes proficiency in the preparation of fertilizers, with a particular emphasis on developing formulations that enhance fertilizer quality, efficiency, and efficacy. Additionally, the ideal candidate is an expert in the field of coating technology, and excels in creating coatings designed to improve the overall quality and performance of fertilizers, primarily with the aim of enhancing their efficiency in agricultural applications. The Scientist role also involves promoting innovation in fertilizer solutions to enhance their use efficiency, thereby contributing to increased agricultural productivity and sustainability. Furthermore, the Scientist is skilled in the integration of additives such as biostimulants and biofertilizers with mineral fertilizers, leading to the development of new organo-mineral fertilizers that combine organic and mineral components to enhance nutrient delivery to plants, improve soil health, and support sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, the Scientist is well-versed in various methods for characterizing fertilizers, encompassing assessments of physical qualities and chemical composition, to ensure the quality and effectiveness of these advanced fertilizer formulations.

Job Description:

The Scientist is responsible for advancing the field of fertilizer technology and agriculture. The selected candidate will be responsible for conducting research, experiments, and analysis in various aspects of fertilizer development and enhancement. The Scientist will contribute to improving the quality, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of fertilizers.

Key Duties:

1. Lead research projects in fertilizer preparation, coating development, and formulation innovation.
2. Develop fertilizer formulations to specific crops and soil conditions to enhance agricultural productivity.
3. Work on improving the effectiveness and efficiency of conventional fertilizers.
4. Develop coating formulations for fertilizers to improve physical qualities, control release rates, prevent caking, reduce dust emission, and manage humidity uptake.
5. Combines conventional mineral fertilizer with added-value products such as biostimulants, microbial biostimulant and biofertilizers.
6. Employ various methods for characterizing fertilizers, including assessing physical qualities like anticaking properties, dust emission, humidity uptake, and hardness. Conduct chemical characterization to understand composition and quality.
7. Engage in instructing both undergraduate and graduate courses aligned with the candidate's research focus, offer guidance and supervision to graduate students, and contribute to the creation of educational resources.

Short-listed candidates will be invited for an interview.

Criteria for the Candidate:

To excel in this role, candidates should possess the following qualifications and attributes:

• A Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field with a strong emphasis on fertilizer science and technology.
• A minimum of seven years of research experience in the field of fertilizer science.
• A demonstrated track record of publications in high-impact, globally recognized peer-reviewed journals, with an H-index exceeding 12.
• Profound knowledge of fertilizer preparation methods, chemical characterization, and techniques for assessing physical quality.
• A proven history of developing innovative fertilizer solutions, coatings, or formulations aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity.
• Strong leadership and project management skills, including the ability to oversee research projects and lead teams of scientists and researchers.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capabilities, essential for addressing intricate challenges in the field of fertilizer science.
• A steadfast commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly fertilizer solutions.
• Effective communication skills, enabling the presentation of research findings, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and publication of research in academic journals.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and standards pertaining to fertilizers and agriculture.

This position offers:

The Scientist receives financial and personal support to achieve the academic and research objectives in the best conditions. The Scientist will be part of an excellent academic and research community that engages in collaborative partnerships with prestigious international universities, as well as many organizations that support fertilizer technologies, plant nutrition and sustainable agriculture in the Moroccan and African ecosystems.

Contract Type: CDI indeterminate contract

Start Date: June 1, 2024.

Number of Positions: 1

Applications and selection procedure:

Applications must be sent by May 20, 2024, in a single electronic zipped folder with the job title mentioned in the email’s subject line. The folder must contain:

• A cover letter indicating the position being applied for, and explaining how the candidate fits the position description.
• A detailed CV.
• Contact information of 3 references from the academic or industrial sectors (applicants are assumed to have obtained their references’ consent to be contacted for this position).