The AGC is seeking to appoint a Professor in Biomining and Bioleaching of Rare Earth Elements to develop innovative, sustainable biotechnological solutions for mineral extraction and resource recovery. Biomining and bioleaching offer eco-friendly alternatives to traditional mining processes, leveraging microbial activity to extract rare earth elements (REEs) and critical metals from ores, phosphogympum, mine waste, and electronic waste. These technologies are essential for securing strategic resources for clean energy, high-tech industries, and environmental sustainability.
The successful candidate will lead research in microbial-mediated metal extraction, biogeochemical processes, and industrial-scale applications of biohydrometallurgy and phophate-based industries. This position will support interdisciplinary collaborations in fields such as environmental biotechnology, microbial engineering, and sustainable resource management, with a focus on applications relevant to Morocco and Africa.
Job Description
- The selected candidate will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment, working alongside experts in microbiology, environmental engineering, materials science, and bioprocessing.
- Qualifications & Requirements
- A Ph.D. in Microbiology, Environmental Biotechnology, Geomicrobiology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
- A strong research record in biomining, bioleaching, biohydrometallurgy, or microbial metal recovery.
- An outstanding publication record in microbial processes for metal extraction, biogeochemistry, or applied biotechnology.
- Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching and mentoring at undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Proven ability to pursue an independent research program and engage in interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Strong motivation to develop biotechnological solutions for rare earth element recovery, sustainable mining, and circular economy approaches.
Responsibilities:
Primary responsibilities encompass:
- Supervising graduate students and postdocs in the fields of Biomining, Bioleaching, Biohydrometallurgy, or Microbial Metal Recovery.
- Developing collaborative research programs Biomining Sciences and Synthetic Biology for potential industrial application.
- Writing grants.
- Supporting institutional research and academic programs and actively participating in institutional activities.
For more information, visit the AGC website: http://agc.um6p.ma or email: Pr. Mohamed Hijri at Mohamed.hijri@um6p.ma
