PhD Position on Valorization of natural compounds isolated from Moroccan marine microflora for to treat skin disorders – Deadline 15 August 2022

PhD Thesis Description

The UM6P AGBS, BPS Program & biomass valorization program and the UM6P MAScIR Foundation seek applications from outstanding candidates for a PhD position Microbiology/ Biotechnology/ Cellular and Molecular Biology/ Biological engineering.

The research project will focus on the valorization of natural compounds isolated from Moroccan marine microflora such as non-filamentous bacteria, actinomycetes and fungus for developing bioactive topicals agents to treat skin disorders. The project will be based on the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological and biological activities investigations. In this project, experiments on the isolation, culture and molecular characterization of marine microorganisms will be performed. Isolated marine microorganisms from different Moroccan ecosystems will be screened for their antimicrobial activities against compounds against multi-drug resistant micro-organisms strains associated to wound infections. For the most promising active marine microbial extracts, the purification, structure elucidation and the mechanism of action will also be elucidated. The PhD student will work within the AGBS-UM6P, Cadi Ayad university and MAScIR Foundation-UM6P

CRITERIA REQUIREMENTS OF THE CANDIDATE

• Master’s degree or engineering degree in Microbiology/ Biotechnology/ Cellular and Molecular Biology/ Biological engineering.
• Experience with relevant laboratory techniques : Bacterial and Fungal cultures, extractions methodscolorimetric and enzymatic methods, molecular techniques.
• Extraction and purification of natural compounds (valuable but not required).
• Excellent organizational skills
• High motivation, teamwork capabilities, and communication skills
• English and French communication skills are required.

Application folder must contain:

For a complete application, we require candidates to submit:

• A CV of 2 pages maximum
• Research publications or patents, if applicable
• A motivation letter indicating relevant extracurricular activities if any
• Academic records: certified copies of the diplomas (with detailed transcripts)
• Certified copy of the identity card and/or passport.
• 2 letters of recommendation
• The research project proposal (2 – 3 pages): The writing of a research proposal (2 to 3 pages) on the subject specifying its scope, the questions asked, the research hypotheses, the theoretical and conceptual field of investigation, the potential repercussions for the benefit of UM6P, Morocco or Africa.

The review committee will verify that the proposed project aligns with the candidate’s background and experience, and then rank the applications based on excellence to invite the top-ranked applicants for an interview (Oral presentation and/or written test).

The UM6P CEDoc communicates the decision of the admissions committee to the applicants in writing.

We offer

A PhD fully funded scholarship for a period of 4 years,

An outstanding infrastructure and broad interdisciplinary surroundings.

Diversity

We value independence, involvement and innovation. Diversity is respected and considered a resource in our work and learning environment. You are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, disability or cultural background.

Contact

For more information, please contact: Dr. Nawal MERGHOUB: Nawal.MERGHOUB@um6p.ma

You can find out more here.