Entity: The African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI)
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 Entity (Hiring entity):
The African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI), a component of UM6P, is based in Laayoune City and focuses on practical-based research to address local, regional, and African agricultural challenges using advanced science and technology.
ASARI collaborates with a broad network of universities and research centers across Africa to bridge real-world field challenges with cutting-edge scientific advancements. The institute is supported by a multidisciplinary team of experts, including agronomists, biochemists, molecular biologists, bioprocess specialists, and animal scientists, working together to address regional challenges impacting marginal environments.
Description of the position:
The Postdoctoral Researcher will work on advancing the understanding and application of seed technology and agronomy of alternative crops suitable for desert and marginal environments. The position focuses on developing innovative solutions to enhance crop productivity and resilience in arid and semi-arid environments. The researcher will engage in laboratory, greenhouse, and field-based studies, contributing to the development of climate-smart and sustainable agriculture practices tailored for challenging ecosystems.
- Conduct research on seed technologies such as priming, coating, and seed microbiome to improve germination and vigor under abiotic stresses
- Design and execute field trials for alternative crops (e.g., quinoa, millet, cowpea) to evaluate performance in desert agricultural systems.
- Assess the impact of seed moisture, temperature, and packaging materials on seed quality and longevity.
- Monitor and analyze seed germination, plant growth, yield, and stress resilience data.
- Apply statistical and modeling tools to interpret experimental results and derive meaningful conclusions.
- Publish research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
- Conduct training sessions and workshops on seed technology and sustainable crop production of alternative crops in desert.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including agronomists, soil scientists, and molecular biologists.
- Coordinate research activities, including procurement of resources, supervision of technical staff and graduate students, and maintaining project timelines.
- Prepare progress reports and contribute to funding proposals for future research initiatives.
- Present research findings at internal meetings, national and international conferences.
Education
A Ph.D. in Agronomy, Plant Sciences, Seed Science and Technology or related field.
Requirement
- Proven experience in research and development related to production of alternative crops in desert and marginal environments, advanced technologies related to seed enhancement, seed longevity, seed microbiome and seed quality evaluation.
- Strong understanding of arid and semi-arid ecosystems, their challenges, and sustainable solutions.
- Experience in capacity building and working with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, and policymakers.
- Acquire skills in statistical analysis to design and analyze experiments, interpret data, and apply appropriate statistical models in seed science research
- Strong communication skills are essential for effectively presenting research findings, writing scientific papers, and collaborating with other researchers and stakeholders in the field of desert agriculture.
- Proven track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects effectively.
