MASCIR - Postdoc in Cellular Biology and Protein Purification

About UM6P:

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.

About MASCIR:

The MAScIR Foundation is a non-profit organization affiliated with Mohammed VI Polytechnic University. Established in 2007, it aims to promote and develop technological research hubs in the fields of materials and nanomaterials, biotechnology, microelectronics, and life sciences. Its work is focused on applied research and innovation to meet market needs.

Postdoctoral Researcher in Cell Biology and Protein Purification
Location: UM6P – Benguerir
Contract Type: Fixed term (Postdoctoral Position)
Availability: Immediate

Required Level: PhD in Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related field

Main Responsibilities:

We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our research team as part of an innovative project focused on the design, production, and characterization of recombinant proteins. Under the supervision of the project leader, your responsibilities will include:

• Establishing and optimizing cell culture protocols under sterile conditions (adherent or suspension eukaryotic cell lines).
• Designing, establishing protocols and conducting recombinant protein expression experiments using eukaryotic or prokaryotic systems (HEK293, CHO, E. coli, etc.).
• Applying and optimizing transfection methods (chemical, electroporation) or viral infection techniques (adenovirus, baculovirus).
• Purifying target proteins using chromatographic techniques (affinity, ion exchange, gel filtration).
• Analyzing and characterizing purified proteins using SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, UV spectroscopy, BCA/Bradford assays, etc.
• Actively contributing to critical data analysis, protocol optimization, and the writing of scientific reports.
• Supporting the valorization of research outcomes through scientific publications and/or patent applications.
• Supervising students and interns involved in the project.

Required Technical Skills:

• Strong expertise in sterile cell culture techniques (eukaryotic cell lines).
• Proven experience in recombinant protein expression (transient and/or stable expression systems).
• Strong expertise in molecular biology techniques (nucleic acid extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, etc.).
• Proven experience in protein purification methods (FPLC/HPLC chromatography).
• Strong expertise in protein analysis tools (SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, UV spectroscopy, BCA/Bradford assays).
• Experience in animal experimentation would be an asset.

Preferred Qualities and Soft Skills:

• Scientific autonomy and strong experimental rigor.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Good communication skills in both English and French (oral and written).