GSMI - Postdoctoral Researcher in Valorization of Complex Phosphate Ores

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. Mohammed VI Polytechnic University aspires to leave its mark nationally, continentally, and globally.

UM6P is located in the municipality of Benguerir, in the very heart of the Green City and only 70 km away from Marrakech. Thanks to its prestigious architectural landscape and modern equipment, the UM6P offers premium conditions for a desirable lifestyle.

About GSMI :

GSMI (Geology & Sustainable Mining institute) aims to strengthen its industrial partnerships within and beyond Morocco and Africa by adopting an integrated and sustainable strategic vision of R&D and training. The institute focuses on various aspects of the mine lifecycle and aims to provide significantly higher added value. In addition to conventional mineral resources R&D, GSMI places emphasis on developing the mine of the future, which includes areas such as geo-mineralogy of mineral resources, circular economy, resource governance, sustainable management of water in mining, and integrated management of mine discharges.

Furthermore, GSMI offers several state-of-the-art R&D platforms that are at the forefront of science and technology. These platforms serve as advanced research and development facilities for conducting cutting-edge research and exploring technological advancements in the field.

Position Summary:

Position Title: Postdoctoral Researcher – Valorization of complex phosphate ores.

Duration: 12 months.

We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Postdoctoral Researcher to join a multidisciplinary research project focused on the sustainable valorization of complex phosphate ores through innovative comminution and classification strategies. The successful candidate will play a leading role in advancing research on autogenous grinding as a low-energy alternative for liberating indurated phosphates. This project integrates mineralogical and mechanical characterization, pilot-scale testing, and advanced process simulation, with the objective of optimizing grinding performance and enhancing resource recovery. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mineral processing, comminution modeling, and ore characterization, and will contribute to developing an integrated beneficiation strategy that reduces operational costs, and energy consumption. This research aligns with broader goals of promoting circular economy practices and technological innovation in the Moroccan phosphate mining sector.

Area of Research:

Sustainable mineral processing, with a focus on the valorization of complex phosphate ores.

Main responsibilities:

• Conduct a detailed literature review on the valorization of complex phosphate ores.
• Design and implement mechanical, mineralogical, and rheological characterizations of indurated phosphate.
• Lead the design and execution of lab-scale grinding and classification trials based on experimental design.
• Contribute to the numerical modeling of beneficiation circuits (e.g., using USIMPAC or similar software).
• Analyze, interpret, and report the outcomes of simulations and pilot tests.
• Draft technical reports and scientific publications.
• Coordinate with internal researchers, external labs, and industrial partners.

Candidate Profile:

Required qualifications :

• PhD in Mineral Processing, Mining Engineering, Georesources Engineering, or related field.
• Proven experience in ore characterization techniques (mechanical, mineralogical, physical).
• Solid knowledge of comminution technologies and mineral beneficiation processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English or French.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred qualifications :

• Experience in grinding technology.
• Familiarity with process simulation software (e.g., USIMPAC, MODSIM, METSIM).
• Prior collaboration with industrial partners.
• Good knowledge of phosphate ores and North African mineral context.

Application Documents:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

• Cover letter
• Detailed CV
• List of publications
• Copies of diplomas
• Professional references (minimum of 2)