About UM6P:
Mohammed VI Polytechnic University is an institution dedicated to research and innovation in Africa and aims to position itself among world-renowned universities in its fields
The University is engaged in economic and human development and puts research and innovation at the forefront of African development. A mechanism that enables it to consolidate Morocco's frontline position in these fields, in a unique partnership-based approach and boosting skills training relevant for the future of Africa.
Located in the municipality of Benguerir, in the very heart of the Green City, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University aspires to leave its mark nationally, continentally, and globally.
About HTMR:
The High Throughput Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory (HTMR) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is a state-of-the-art research facility dedicated to accelerating scientific discovery through automation, digitalization, and high-throughput experimentation. By integrating advanced robotics, intelligent workflows, and multidisciplinary expertise, HTMR enables researchers to rapidly design, synthesize, and optimize materials and processes across fields such as energy, metallurgy, smart materials, chemical engineering, and environmental science. The laboratory bridges fundamental research with industrial applications, helping transform innovative ideas into scalable technologies while reducing development time, cost, and experimental complexity.
Starting date: 1st September 2026
Sodium-ion batteries are a growing technology and show promising potential for large scale applications. However, developing efficient positive electrode materials is a key factor in advancing this technology and promoting its use in practical applications. NaSICON (Natrium Super Ionic CONductor) materials have a 3D structure allowing the fast diffusion of sodium during the electrochemical reaction of charge/ discharge as well as good structural and thermal stabilities. This project targets the synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical evaluation of P-based NaSICON-type materials as positive electrodes for sodium-ion batteries.
We are looking for an assiduous, ambitious, and engaged Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong background in chemistry of materials, materials science, electrochemistry, materials synthesis and battery research.
Key responsibilities:
- Synthesis of different P-based materials via the sol-gel and solvothermal methods with control over morphology, particle size, and composition.
- Material characterization using XRD, SEM, EDS, ICP, BET, TGA, FTIR, RAMAN spectroscopy, etc.
- Electrode preparation, battery assembly, and evaluation of the electrochemical properties versus metallic sodium using different testing techniques (GCPL, CV, GITT, EIS, etc.).
- Establishing relationships between the physical and chemical properties of P-based cathodes and their electrochemical performance in sodium-ion half-cell and full cell configurations.
- Performing advanced characterization using in-situ XRD, XPS, 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy and NMR to investigate material behavior and interfacial chemistry during synthesis and battery operation.
- Develop mechanistic understanding of cathode operation and degradation, identify pathways to improve the performance and safety of advanced electrochemical cells.
- Analyzing and interpreting experimental data and communicating findings through manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, presentations at scientific conferences, internal reports, group meeting presentations.
If this topic sounds interesting and you would like to hear more, please contact: Ms. Yousra Moukadiri ([email protected] ) or Prof. Aziam Hasna ([email protected] )
Profile:
- Recent or soon-to-be-completed PhD (within the last 0-5 years) in field of chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or equivalent.
- Required hands-on experience with sol-gel and solvothermal synthesis of cathode materials.
- Strong background in electrochemistry, including experience performing and interpreting galvanostatic testing of half-cells and full cells, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry, etc.
- Broad understanding of materials science concepts relevant to electrochemical systems, with the ability to apply insights from related research areas to solve battery materials challenges.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to model UM6P’s core values of impact, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
Keywords:
P-based materials, positive electrode materials, sodium-ion batteries, synthesis, crystal structure, electrochemical properties.
Laboratory:
High Throughput Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory (HTMR).
Project duration:
1 year
