Postdoctoral Fellow - Membrane-Based Pretreatment for Seawater Desalination

About Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P)

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University is a forward-looking, internationally oriented institution dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. Its mission supports the sustainable economic development of Morocco and Africa through applied research and technological innovation at the core of its academic model.

UM6P offers a high-quality academic and living environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge laboratories, and a vibrant research ecosystem. The university's research philosophy is grounded in transdisciplinarity, entrepreneurship, and strong collaboration with industry, public institutions, and international research organizations.

About the International Water Research Institute (IWRI)

The International Water Research Institute at UM6P, located in Benguerir, Morocco, is dedicated to interdisciplinary education, research, and innovation in water, climate, and sustainable development. IWRI advances cutting-edge, impact-oriented research that bridges local and regional water challenges with global water and climate issues.

IWRI's core research areas include:

• Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)
• Water-related technologies: irrigation, water supply, sanitation, desalination, treatment, recycling, and reuse
• Water–Energy–Food–Health–Education Nexus
• Climate change impacts and adaptation strategies
• Water information systems and decision-support tools
• Environmental sustainability and sustainable development

Position Overview

IWRI invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position in desalination and water treatment within an applied research project. We seek highly motivated candidates with demonstrated expertise in seawater desalination pretreatment, particularly in Membrane-Based Processes.

The successful candidate will contribute to the development, optimization, and scale-up of advanced pretreatment solutions for seawater desalination in a dynamic, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Seawater monitoring and characterization: Plan and conduct periodic sampling campaigns of raw seawater and monitor its physicochemical and biological quality
• Data analysis and modeling: Process and analyze seawater quality data and develop statistical and mathematical models to correlate feed-water characteristics with pretreatment performance
• System design and laboratory experimentation: Design, assemble, and operate lab-scale Membrane-Based systems for seawater pretreatment, including configuration, optimization, and performance validation
• Operation and maintenance protocol development: Develop and implement comprehensive O&M protocols to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation of Membrane-Based systems
• Pilot-scale testing and field deployment: Organize and conduct field missions and pilot-scale trials to assess efficiency, robustness, and operational behavior under real seawater conditions
• Performance assessment and process optimization: Collect and interpret operational data, diagnose performance limitations or fouling issues, and propose data-driven corrective actions
• Reporting and knowledge transfer: Prepare high-quality technical reports, datasets, presentations, and documentation for the internal team
• Scientific dissemination: Contribute to peer-reviewed scientific publications and present research outcomes at national and international conferences

Qualifications and Requirements

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Water-Process Engineering, Membrane Materials and Processes, or closely related discipline
• Relevant experience in desalination and/or filtration systems at laboratory, pilot, or industrial scale
• Strong background in ceramic membrane materials and processes (significant advantage)
• Mandatory hands-on experience with water treatment processes
• Experience in water quality analysis for evaluating and monitoring water treatment system performance
• Proven experience in leading or contributing to research projects (highly desirable)
• Demonstrated ability to generate innovative ideas and develop novel, practical solutions
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills in multidisciplinary and multicultural environments
• Fluency in English and French, both written and spoken
• Demonstrated ability to write high-quality scientific manuscripts for high-impact, peer-reviewed journals
• Willingness to travel for fieldwork and project-related activities; valid driver's license required

Contract Details

1-year fixed-term contract with the possibility of a one-year extension. Starting date: as soon as possible.