Postdoctoral Fellow, Membrane-Based Pretreatment for SWRO Desalination

About the role

The International Water Research Institute (IWRI) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Benguerir, Morocco, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in desalination and water treatment, within an applied research project. The position focuses on membrane-based pretreatment for seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) and suits candidates with expertise in seawater desalination pretreatment. The contract is a one-year fixed-term agreement, with the possibility of a one-year extension, starting as soon as possible.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and carry out periodic sampling campaigns of raw seawater and monitor its physicochemical and biological quality.
• Analyze seawater quality data and develop statistical and mathematical models linking feed-water characteristics to pretreatment performance.
• Design, assemble and operate a lab-scale membrane-based system for seawater pretreatment, including configuration, optimization and performance validation.
• Develop and implement an operation and maintenance (O&M) protocol for the membrane-based system.
• Organize field missions and pilot-scale trials to test the process under real seawater conditions.
• Diagnose performance limitations or fouling and propose data-driven improvements.
• Prepare technical reports, datasets, presentations and documentation, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Required profile

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Water-Process Engineering, Membrane Materials and Processes, or a closely related discipline.
• Relevant experience in desalination and/or filtration systems at laboratory, pilot or industrial scale.
• Mandatory hands-on experience with water treatment processes and water quality analysis for performance evaluation.
• Proven experience leading or contributing to research projects is highly desirable.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and French.
• Ability to write scientific manuscripts for high-impact journals and willingness to travel for fieldwork; a valid driver's license is required.

Required skills

• A strong background in ceramic membrane materials and processes is a significant advantage.
• Statistical and mathematical modeling of water quality data.
• Excellent communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills in multidisciplinary, multicultural settings.