Postdoc in Field-Based Boron and Potassium Biogeochemistry Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in

The Global Critical Zone Science Chair at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University is recruiting a two-year postdoctoral fellow in field-based boron and potassium biogeochemistry. The postdoc will join an international, multidisciplinary research effort focused on understanding forest nutrition and nutritional stress in Eucalyptus plantations in Brazil, with a particular emphasis on how nutrients move through the critical zone and how they support tree growth under changing environmental conditions.

The project is grounded in the broader scientific question of how forests sustain productivity beyond carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. It investigates the roles of mineral-derived nutrients such as boron (B) and potassium (K), using a combination of field sampling, high-precision isotope measurements, nutrient budgeting, and modelling. A central methodological component is the use of boron isotopes, with potential extension to potassium isotopes, to trace nutrient cycling across soil, vegetation, soil water, rainfall inputs, groundwater, and river water. The work is linked to the French ANR-funded Nutribor project and will contribute to a wider network of critical zone observatories and modelling efforts.

The successful candidate will be mostly based in Brazil and work on the EucFlux instrumented plantation, a long-term monitored eucalyptus site with flux measurements and ancillary data on carbon, water, and nutrient cycles. The project includes sampling of soils, roots, wood, bark, leaves, litterfall, throughfall, stemflow, soil solutions, atmospheric deposition, groundwater, and nearby water points/micro-watersheds. The research will compare mature fertilized stands and post-harvest stands under nutrient-omission designs for boron and potassium, aiming to establish partial boron budgets and understand relationships between B and other macro- and micronutrients.

The position is particularly suited to candidates with a strong background in isotope geochemistry, field sampling, and laboratory analysis. Experience with MC-ICPMS would be an asset. Modelling skills are appreciated, although the core of the work is field- and lab-based. The postdoc will collaborate with international partners, Brazilian teams, a modelling group at Cirad, and private-sector forestry stakeholders. Strong scientific writing is important, as the project is expected to produce publications in high-standard journals, an executive summary for policymakers, and a final report.

Eligibility highlights: a PhD from a recognized Moroccan or African university in environmental science, soil science, surface geochemistry, or a related area; strong publication record; proven field experience; and excellent English communication. The role is advertised as a postdoctoral fellowship for candidates from Moroccan or African universities.

Application: submit your application via the provided online link. Deadline is unspecified in the posting.