Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Benguerir, Morocco, is offering two Master's thesis (PFE) internship opportunities within the Materials Science, Energy & Nano-engineering (MSN) department. These six-month positions, running from February to July 2025, focus on cutting-edge research in energy storage and circular economy. Option 1: Sodium-Ion Batteries Synthesis and characterization of advanced cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries. This project is ideal for students with a strong background in solid-state chemistry and materials physics. Option 2: Circular Economy & Recycling Recovery and valorization of industrial waste for the extraction of battery-grade materials, contributing to sustainable practices and resource efficiency. Candidates should have skills in wet chemistry, experimental data analysis, and a collaborative spirit. Eligibility: Applicants must be pursuing or have completed a Master's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering. Fluency in English (oral and written) is required. A scientific mindset and motivation to work in a high-level research environment are essential. Supervision: Interns will be supervised by Professors Abdelwahed Chari and Mouad Dahbi, both experts in their fields, ensuring a rich learning experience and professional development. Benefits: The internships offer immersion in innovative research projects, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and the opportunity to contribute to advancements in energy storage and recycling technologies. The scientific environment at UM6P is highly stimulating and supportive. Application: Interested candidates should apply via the provided application link. Ensure all eligibility criteria are met and prepare necessary documents such as CV and transcripts. For more information, visit the official UM6P or Parcours d'Etudiants website. Keywords: Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Sodium-Ion Batteries, Circular Economy, Recycling, Energy Storage, Solid-State Chemistry, Wet Chemistry, Characterization.

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Benguerir, Morocco, is offering two 6-month Master’s thesis opportunities in the Materials Science, Energy & Nano-engineering (MSN) Department, starting February 1, 2025. These positions focus on innovative research in sustainable energy and battery recycling, providing hands-on laboratory experience, advanced materials characterization, and the development of cutting-edge recycling processes. Project 1: Direct Regeneration of Degraded Lithium-Ion Battery Cathodes Using a Green and Sustainable Approach This project aims to develop environmentally friendly methods for regenerating degraded lithium-ion battery cathodes. Students will work on restoring the structure, surface, and electrochemical performance of used cathode materials, enabling their reuse in high-performance batteries. The research combines materials chemistry, green processing, and electrochemical evaluation, offering a unique opportunity to explore sustainable rejuvenation of critical battery materials. Project 2: Upcycling of Spent Battery Cathodes for Direct Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries This project focuses on the sustainable recovery and upcycling of spent lithium-ion battery cathodes. The goal is to develop practical and environmentally responsible processes that restore degraded materials without full chemical breakdown, supporting circular economy approaches and reducing waste in battery manufacturing. Both projects are supervised by Professors Amina Amarray and Mouad Dahbi at the MSN Department. The research environment is dynamic, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a multidisciplinary team. Students will conduct literature reviews, develop and optimize laboratory-scale protocols, perform materials characterization (using XRD, SEM/TEM, ICP-OES/XRF, TGA/DSC), and carry out electrochemical tests to evaluate improvements in battery materials. Eligibility: Applicants must be Master’s students in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or related fields. Required skills include a solid background in inorganic/solid-state chemistry, environmental chemistry, and wet-chemistry laboratory practices. Experience with battery materials or cathode regeneration is a plus. Good communication skills in English and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team are essential. Application: Interested candidates should review the detailed project descriptions at the provided links and contact the MSN Department at UM6P for further instructions. The positions are open until filled, with a start date of February 1, 2025. No explicit funding information is provided in the announcement. These opportunities are ideal for students passionate about sustainable energy, materials science, and innovative recycling technologies, and who wish to contribute to the future of energy storage and sustainable battery technologies in Africa and beyond.