Professor in Catalytic Conversion of Biomass

About the role

The Sustainable Materials Research Center (SusMat-RC) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is inviting applications for a faculty position in the catalytic conversion of biomass and its components. The successful candidate will plan, develop and carry out applied research turning biomass (lignin, cellulose, oils, etc.) into new chemicals and biofuels via catalytic and green chemical pathways. The position is open rank and requires at least 5 years of experience after the PhD.

Key responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of catalytic conversion of biomass within SusMat-RC.
• Share knowledge and findings with researchers at UM6P, external clients and collaborators.
• Collaborate with SusMat-RC researchers on new concepts for sustainable materials and their industrial applications.
• Design and teach advanced courses on catalysis, biomass conversion and green chemistry for Master and PhD students.
• Help turn applied research into engineering solutions across TRL levels 3 to 9.
• Work with universities, companies and consortia to test and commercialize research innovations.
• Contribute to manuscripts, patents and research proposals, and help manage the center.
• Co-supervise graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
• Communicate fluently in English and French, representing the center at conferences and workshops.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• At least 5 years of professional experience, including postdoctoral work, with recognized expertise in heterogeneous catalysis; industrial experience is a strong asset.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, lead and maintain research programs, and good experience supervising M.Sc. and Ph.D. students.
• Fluent in English and French, spoken and written.

Required skills

• Catalyst synthesis and characterization.
• Thermochemical conversion of biomass, including pyrolysis and hydrothermal processing.
• Chemistry of renewable resources, processing, fractionation and cracking of biomass.
• Leadership, project management and teaching skills; first-hand experience in entrepreneurship or start-ups is a strong asset.

Applications must include a detailed CV, a cover letter with a summary of background, research, publications and achievements, research and teaching plans, and three reference letters.