Entreprise
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.
Adresse
Lot 660, Hay Moulay Rachid, Ben Guerir 43150
Poste
Department: Biodiversity and Plant Sciences Program, AgroBiosciences Department, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Benguerir, Morocco.
Position Duration: CDD Contract of 6 months starting by October 2022.
We are looking for an enthusiastic Research engineer preferably with a background in entomology. This position will be based at AgroBiosciences Department, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Benguerir, Morocco.
Project Background/Introduction:
Cactus is a perfectly appropriate crop for land rehabilitation in the arid and semi-arid regions of Morocco. With little investment, it can produce important resources for human and animal nutrition, and generate adequate revenues for farmers, thereby improving their livelihoods. In addition to its wide ecologic importance in soil reconstruction (prevents erosion), it also contributes to biodiversity preservation. Cactus plantations are usually undisturbed natural habitats because of no soil cultivation and no pesticide use. Therefore, in the “Green Morocco Plan” cactus has been identified by the “Regional Agricultural Plans” (PAR), as among the most important options for soil rehabilitation in the arid and semi-arid areas. In this regard, several thousand hectares were planted to cactus. This crop has become widely appreciated by a large majority of farmers for its fruit and forage production. Unfortunately, the sustainability of this extremely resilient ecosystem has become seriously threatened by the appearance of an invasive and devastating pest of cactus, Dactylopius opuntiae. This cochineal, which is specific to cacti, was detected in Morocco in 2014. Since its appearance in Sidi Bennour-Doukkala-Morocco, it has caused enormous damage in several areas of cactus production. The injudicious use of pesticides to control this pest had led to several undesirable side effects on natural enemies and environmental pollution. The objective of this position is to develop eco-friendly and effective biological insecticides against D. opuntiae.
Key duties:
The New Hire will be expected to:
- Conduct research as part of the project team
- Conduct insecticidal activities of selected natural extracts in vitro, in the greenhouse and in the field.
Profile recherché
Criteria of the candidate
- MSc/PhD in entomology, phytochemistry, or comparable
- Previous knowledge with cochineal is required
- Excellent knowledge in English and French
- High motivation, teamwork capabilities, and communication skills
