Postdoctoral Position in Mineral Thermal Processing and Pyrometallurgy

About the role

The Geology and Sustainable Mining Institute (GSMI) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) invites applications for an 18‑month postdoctoral position focused on mineral thermal processing and pyrometallurgy. The role supports industry‑linked research projects funded by the OCP Group, aiming to develop innovative high‑temperature processes for transforming complex or secondary ores.

Key responsibilities

• Investigate thermal and physicochemical properties of minerals.
• Design and carry out laboratory‑scale thermal treatments such as calcination, roasting and smelting using muffle furnaces, tubular reactors or pilot‑scale kilns.
• Develop and optimise pyrometallurgical flow sheets for producing value‑added materials or metals.
• Perform product characterisation and support process modelling.
• Conduct techno‑economic evaluations of proposed pyrometallurgical routes.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Process Engineering, Materials Chemistry or a related discipline with a focus on pyrometallurgy or mineral thermal processing.
• Strong background in material characterisation techniques.
• Hands‑on experience with laboratory‑scale thermal treatment equipment.
• Proven ability to work independently, analyse data critically and communicate results.
• Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills in English; French is a plus.

Required skills

• X‑ray diffraction (XRD)
• Thermogravimetric/Differential Scanning Calorimetry (TGA/DSC)
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
• Thermodynamic simulation software (FactSage, Thermo‑Calc)
• Muffle furnace, tubular reactor, pilot‑scale kiln operation

What we offer

• 18‑month fixed‑term postdoctoral contract.
• Opportunity to work on strategic, industry‑linked research funded by the OCP Group.
• Collaboration with academic and industrial partners in a state‑of‑the‑art research institute.