About the Institution
Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is a leading research and innovation institution in Africa, committed to advancing science, technology, and engineering. UM6P aims to position itself among world-renowned universities by fostering cutting-edge research and academic excellence across multiple disciplines.
Role Overview
UM6P is seeking an Assistant Professor of Space Propulsion and Micro-Propulsion for Satellites to join its academic faculty. This position is ideal for a motivated researcher and educator with deep expertise in propulsion systems, particularly in the design, development, and optimization of micro-propulsion technologies for small satellites and spacecraft. The successful candidate will contribute to both undergraduate and graduate teaching while leading innovative research projects in aerospace propulsion engineering.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver high-quality lectures and coursework in space propulsion, aerospace engineering, micro-propulsion systems, and related disciplines at undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Conduct original, publishable research in satellite propulsion, electric propulsion, cold gas thrusters, micro-thruster design, and advanced propulsion concepts for small spacecraft.
- Supervise graduate student theses, doctoral research, and postdoctoral projects in aerospace propulsion and related fields.
- Develop and maintain laboratory facilities and experimental setups for propulsion testing and characterization.
- Secure external research funding through competitive grants, industry partnerships, and international collaborations.
- Publish research findings in high-impact aerospace and propulsion journals and present at international conferences.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across UM6P and partner institutions on space technology and satellite systems projects.
- Contribute to curriculum development and program accreditation efforts within the engineering department.
- Participate in university service activities, including committee work, academic advising, and community engagement.
Qualifications and Requirements
Hard Skills
- Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, Space Systems Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Strong research background in space propulsion, micro-propulsion, electric propulsion, thruster design, or plasma propulsion.
- Experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD), thermal analysis, and propulsion simulation tools.
- Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings related to propulsion or aerospace engineering.
- Hands-on experience with propulsion testing, vacuum chamber experiments, or thruster characterization is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with satellite systems, spacecraft design, and mission analysis.
- Proficiency in scientific programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, C++, or similar tools for data analysis and modeling.
Soft Skills
- Excellent communication skills in English; proficiency in French or Arabic is a strong asset.
- Proven ability to work in multidisciplinary and international research teams.
- Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities.
- Commitment to academic excellence, mentorship, and student development.
- Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple research projects and teaching responsibilities simultaneously.
- Experience in grant writing and securing research funding is an advantage.
Why This Role
- Join a world-class research university at the forefront of science and innovation in Africa.
- Work in a dynamic, international academic environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities.
- Opportunity to shape the next generation of aerospace engineers and contribute to the growing space industry in Morocco and across the continent.
- Engage in high-impact research with real-world applications in satellite technology and space exploration.
- Competitive compensation package with benefits, research support, and professional development opportunities.
- Contribute to UM6P's mission of positioning Africa as a hub for advanced technology and space research.