ASARI - Postdoctoral Position in Natural Products Chemistry

Entity: ASARI-UM6P Laâyoune, Biorefinery and Bioenergy research program  

About UM6P: 

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 the ASARI (UM6P Laâyoune):

The African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI) is a component of the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). It is located in Foum El Oued/Laâyoune City and constitutes a structure of practical-based research with a vision of solving real Local, Regional, and African agriculture challenges leveraging up-to-date science and technology.  Oriented towards Africa, ASARI acts in connection with a wide network of universities and research centers around the continent in order to link real field issues with up-to-date science. The institute consists of a multidisciplinary team of agronomists, biochemists, molecular biologists, bioprocess specialists, animal scientists, etc to respond to regional challenges affecting marginal environments.  

Description of the position: 

African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Laâyoune is seeking applications for a highly skilled Postdoctoral Research Fellow with a background in Natural Products Chemistry. Candidates should hold a PhD in Natural products chemistry, Phytochemistry, Cell biology, Pharmacognosy, Cosmetology, or a related field. The successful candidate will focus on developing new formulations with Plant-based Natural Products for cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical applications. 

The ideal candidate will be expected to join an interdisciplinary team to work on projects focused on biomass valorization, green chemistry, metabolomics, formulation chemistry, and biological activities of desert natural resources. Evidence of research excellence is expected. 

Education 

• A Ph.D. in Phytochemistry, Pharmacognosy, Cosmetology, Natural Products Chemistry, and Cell biology or related field. 

Requirement 

• Hands-on experience in optimizing extraction processes and characterizing bioactive ingredients from various biomass. 
• Demonstrated competence in purification/isolation and structure elucidation of pure natural products/unknown secondary metabolites using advanced analytical tools. 
• Proven experience in mastering cell culture/treatments/cell viability. 
• Excellent skills in vitro biological assays (enzymes involved in skin disorders, inflammation, and oxidative stress). 
• Proven technical experience in advanced microscopy tools, Real-time PCR, and Flow cytometry. 
• Advanced Knowledge in skin biology and technical skills in cosmetic formulation. 
• Proficiency in the use of software and databases and statistical analysis. 
• Publish in well-ranked and high-impact journals in the field. 
• Supervise and mentor graduate students. 
• Strong French and English communication skills, both verbal and written, are required.