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.
Role Overview
The Lead of Imaging and Characterization Platforms at UM6P Corelabs will be responsible for overseeing and advancing the capabilities, technical operations, and service offerings of the division. This role requires a highly skilled and experienced leader with expertise in advanced imaging and characterization techniques, laboratory management, and fostering collaborations with academia and industry. The Lead Manager will supervise a team of scientists and technical staff, ensuring operational excellence while promoting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Additionally, the incumbent will play a strategic role in positioning the Imaging and Characterization Platforms as a cornerstone of the Corelabs’ center of excellence in scientific research and industrial applications.
Key Responsibilities
Scientific & Technical Leadership
- Oversee and develop innovative characterization techniques to meet the needs of researchers and industrial partners.
- Ensure the continuous improvement of characterization workflows and the adoption of emerging technologies.
- Provide expert guidance on experimental design, method development, and data interpretation for imaging and characterization projects.
- Drive projects in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, fostering innovation.
- Lead and guide the set-up of an advanced microscopic imaging platform (SEM, TEM, AFM) to offer state-of-the-art high-resolution imaging capabilities.
Operational & Laboratory Management
- Lead the daily operations of the Imaging and Characterization Platforms, ensuring high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.
- Manage and optimize the use of advanced imaging and characterization instrumentation, such as electron microscopy (SEM, TEM), X-ray platforms (XRD, XRM, XRF and SC-XRD), and other specialized techniques.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, quality assurance protocols, and safety standards.
- Supervise the calibration, validation, and maintenance of imaging equipment to ensure reliability and precision.
Financial Sustainability and Business Development
- Ensure the financial sustainability and autonomy of the imaging platforms through strategic planning and cost-efficiency.
- Implement a business development strategy to increase platform visibility and utilization rates among both internal and external clients.
- Contribute to the development of new service lines, consulting activities, and contract research opportunities that leverage the expertise of the imaging platforms.
- Identify and develop spin-off projects or start-up ideas emerging from platform expertise, aligning with UM6P’s innovation and entrepreneurship goals.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial indicators to assess the performance and growth potential of the imaging platforms.
Team Leadership & Capacity Building
- Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment that supports the success of the imaging and characterization platforms.
- Develop and provide training programs and workshops to enhance the skills of researchers and industry professionals in advanced imaging and characterization techniques.
- Promote a culture of innovation, and continuous learning within the team, encouraging the adoption of new methodologies to improve service offerings.
Strategic Development & Collaboration
- Lead the execution of the Imaging and Characterization Platforms' strategy, aligning with UM6P- CoreLabs’ vision.
- Establish partnerships with academic institutions, research centers, and industrial partners.
- Represent the Imaging and Characterization Platforms at national and international conferences, showcasing expertise and platforms.
Qualifications & Experience
- PhD in Physics, Materials Science, or a related field with a focus on characterization techniques.
- Minimum of 8–10 years of experience, with a strong track record in method development and instrumentation related to imaging and characterization technologies.
- Demonstrated expertise in advanced characterization techniques such as electron microscopy, X-rays, and other specialized characterization modalities.
- Experience in laboratory management, laboratory quality control, and compliance with international standards relevant to imaging and characterization platforms.
- Strong leadership skills with proven experience in mentoring teams of technical staff in imaging and characterization environments.
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, with a proven ability to engage with academia and industry partners.
- A track record in scientific publications, patenting, or technology transfer is an asset.
- Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication abilities to bridge technical and non- technical stakeholders
