IWRI - Postdoctoral Research in Multi-Millennial Hydroclimate Variability

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 IWRI:

International Water Research Institute (IWRI/UM6P) aims to rethink and adapt research, development, innovation and training to new paradigms to meet the future challenges of water and climate.

IWRI implements interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary education and research programs around issues related to Water and Climate, on the campus of the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Benguerir. The objectives are to conduct cutting-edge research where local themes are connected to global issues of water and climate, with a focus on:

• Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM),
• Development of advanced water technologies (irrigation, water supply and sanitation, desalination, wastewater treatment and reuse), 
• Hydro-informatics, 
• Climate Change and Adaptation Strategies. 

Job description:

IWRI is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Postodoctoral Scientist with experience in long term hydroclimate variability. Our research group is dedicated to advancing our understanding of past climate dynamics and their implications for future climate change. We utilize cutting-edge techniques and interdisciplinary approaches to analyze natural archives and reconstruct climate variability over different timescales.

Position Overview:

As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you will lead investigations into paleoclimate reconstructions using cave sediments and other natural archives that contain valuable records of past climate conditions, including temperature, precipitation, and atmospheric circulation patterns. Your research will involve fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and data interpretation to reconstruct paleoclimate variability and understand its drivers and impacts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct field expeditions to collect samples from caves located in diverse climatic regions.
• Perform high-resolution analyses of speleothem geochemistry, including stable isotopes, trace elements, and dating techniques.
• Develop and apply novel methods for paleoclimate reconstruction and data interpretation, integrating multi-proxy datasets.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to synthesize paleoclimate records and contribute to regional and global climate reconstructions.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals, present results at conferences, and engage with the broader scientific community.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, or a related field, with a focus on paleoclimate research.
• Strong background in geochemistry, isotope geochemistry, and paleoclimate reconstruction techniques.
• Experience with speleothem research, including sample collection, laboratory analyses, and interpretation of results.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical methods.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a track record of scientific publications and conference presentations.