Areas of research and expertise

The Geology and Sustainable Mining Institute (GSMI) is seeking a motivated and qualified Research Engineer / Research Assistant to contribute to research projects focused on the valorization of silica sand and the development of beneficiation processes to produce different grades of silica. The objective is to assess the feasibility of recovering high-purity silica ( 98.5% SiO) from various sources in Morocco, enabling its use in multiple applications.

The ideal candidate will have academic training and interest in:

• Materials characterization (XRD, XRF, SEM-EDS, FTIR, thermal analysis, etc.).


• Mineral processing methods (flotation, gravity separation, magnetic and electrostatic separation, acid leaching, etc.).


• Thermal treatment and process development for silica sand upgrading.


• Data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of experimental results.

Job description

The GSMI at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University invites applications for a Research Assistant / Research Engineer position in Silicon Resources Valorization. We are seeking candidates with strong backgrounds in mineral processing and materials characterization, particularly those with hands-on experience in laboratory work, beneficiation testing, and thermal treatment processes. The selected candidate will support applied research projects aligned with GSMIs mission to advance sustainable mineral resource development and industrial mineral valorization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct laboratory experiments on silica sand beneficiation and upgrading.


• Operate and maintain mineral processing and analytical instruments.


• Investigate thermal treatment processes to improve silica quality.


• Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports, publications, and technical notes.


• Collaborate with researchers, engineers, and students on project activities.


• Participate in regular project reviews and research meetings.