ASARI – Postdoctoral Position in Design of Pilot-Scale

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is an internationally oriented institution of higher learning, that is committed to an educational system based on the highest standards of teaching and research in fields related to the sustainable economic development of Morocco and Africa. UM6P is an institution oriented towards applied research and innovation. On a specific focus on Africa, UM6P aims to position these fields as the forefront and become a university of international standing. More than just a traditional academic institution, UM6P is a platform for experimentation and a pool of opportunities, for students, professors, and staff. It offers a high-quality living and study environment thanks to its state-of-the-art infrastructure. With an innovative approach, UM6P places research and innovation at the heart of its educational project as a driving force of a business model.

About ASARI

The African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (ASARIUM6P, Laâyoune) is an institution dedicated to research and innovation in Africa. The Institute is committed to economic and human development, placing research and innovation at the forefront of African development. It leverages a mechanism that allows Morocco to consolidate its leading position in these fields, adopting a unique approach based on partnerships and enhancing the training of the necessary skills for Africa’s future.

Located in the city of Laâyoune in southern Morocco, the African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute aspires to make its mark at the national, continental, and global levels.

Description Of The Position

ASARI-UM6P is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to lead the scale-up of bioenergy and biofertilizer production processes from lab to pilot scale. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams (biologists, engineers, chemists) to design, optimize, and operate bioreactors, digesters, and other equipment. By employing advanced techniques like sensitivity analysis and process simulations, the candidate will improve yields and energy efficiency. She/he will also integrate diverse technologies into pilot plant designs, conduct trials, and manage multidisciplinary projects. To stay at the forefront of sustainable bio-based technologies, the candidate will keep abreast of the latest trends and propose innovative solutions. The candidate will provide technical support to engineers and scientists involved in process and bioprocess engineering, renewable energy, biomass, and waste valorization.

Education

A Ph.D. in Physics/Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Process engineering or a related field.

Requirement

• Strong knowledge in process engineering
• Proficiency in using simulation software for process modeling (e.g., ASPEN, SuperPro Designer…).
• Familiarity with scaling up biotechnological processes and designing pilot-scale plants.
• Ability to analyze experimental data, perform mass/energy balances, and optimize process conditions.
• Proven experience in managing pilot-scale projects, coordinating teams, and ensuring deliverables are met within deadlines.