ACER CoE Postdoc in Optical and Laser Diagnostics for Plasma Propagation and Plasma-Surface Interactions Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Morocco

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is advertising a postdoctoral research position within the Applied Chemistry and Engineering Research Center of Excellence (ACER-CoE) in Benguerir, Morocco. The project is titled Optical and Laser Diagnostics for Plasma Propagation and Plasma-Surface Interactions and is centered on experimental plasma research at the intersection of plasma physics, chemical engineering, energy, and sustainability.

The successful postdoctoral researcher will study plasma propagation in open atmosphere and plasma-surface interactions using advanced optical and laser diagnostic methods. The work focuses on understanding the physical and chemical processes in non-thermal plasmas, tracking discharge dynamics, and identifying how reactive species are generated under varying operating conditions. A major part of the project involves optical emission spectroscopy (OES) and other laser-based diagnostics to characterize plasma properties, determine key plasma parameters, and measure absolute densities of atoms and molecules.

The research also examines how plasma interacts with different materials and how plasma treatment modifies surface properties. Surface characterization will use methods such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The role combines experimental investigation, data analysis, and scientific writing, with the expectation of contributing to peer-reviewed publications.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Plasma Science, Plasma Physics, Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. Experience with plasma experiments, spectroscopy, or laser diagnostics is advantageous. Familiarity with materials characterization methods such as XRD, SEM, FTIR, and ICP-OES is also desirable. Strong technical computing skills in Python, MATLAB, or LABVIEW are expected, together with very good English communication abilities and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively.

UM6P describes ACER-CoE as an interdisciplinary and innovative research environment with strong training and professional development support. The university emphasizes applied research, innovation, and collaboration. The starting date is immediately, although it can be postponed to June 2026. Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, a detailed CV with publication list, and contact details for 2-3 references. For questions, the contact email listed is et-touhami.es-sebbar@um6p.ma.