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
Trace metals inputs to agricultural soils via fertilisers are of concern due to their potential risk to the environment and human health. The overarching goal of the DUNE project (CaDmiUm and Trace Elements Bio-Availability and Transfer In Soil-PlaNt SystEm) is to enhance our understanding of Cd bioavailability and bio-accumulation to crops. To improve our understanding of Cd bio-availability in soils and plants it is primordial to tackle the Cd biogeochemical cycle and dynamic, and put effort into characterizing the sources of Cd in the environment as well as what controls the bioavailability of this element down to a molecular level. The DUNE project will bring further constrains on the uptake mechanisms and fate (translocation, accumulation) of Cd and trace elements (TE) in crops and their rhizosphere.
The PhD will focus on the role of the origin and type of inorganic fertiliser on Cd and TE phyto-availability. Experiments performed by the PhD student aim at testing and ranking a set of parameters that may control the phyto-availability of Cd and TE from a wide range of inorganic P fertilisers. Indeed, the uptake of trace elements by roots hinges on plant factors (species, growth stage, metal distribution in plant parts, etc.), on soil factors (pH, organic matter, source and chemical form of elements) as well as the speciation of Cd and TE in the fertilisers. Plant samples will be cultivated using the RHIZOtest device. This test provides easy access to rhizosphere soil, roots and aerial parts and allows the growth of plants on selected soils (e.g. pH, Cd-content of soil, soil types) (Bravin et al, 2010).
The large set of results acquired will be used to investigate the transfer characteristics of Cd and to identify the major biogeochemical drivers. We will develop predictive statistical models such as structural equation model (SEM) for the selected plant species. Statistical models will help to predict and identify the factors controlling Cd phyto-availability.
PhD will perform experiments in France (CIRAD, Montpellier) and in Morocco (UM6P).
Key duties
Successful candidate is expected to:
• Carry out lab experiments with plant, soil materials
• Analyze physicochemical parameters of samples
• Process data sets in R (or equivalent)
• Manage different posting in France and Morocco
Profile recherché
Criteria of the candidate:
- Master’s or equivalent degree in plant physiology/biotechnology, soil science, agronomy or environmental science
- Solid knowledge in statistics and/or plant physiology- Rigor / organization
- Good communication skills
- Team work
- Oral and written English proficiency
