Global Critical Zone Science Chair (GCZS - IAS UM6P)

The “Global Critical Zone Science Chair” (GCZSC) is an initiative dedicated to advancing research and innovation at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). It aligns with the OCP Group’s green investment strategy and operates as part of the Institute of Advanced Studies (IAS), collaborating with multiple UM6P departments. The GCZSC focuses on supporting the Feeding and Greening Africa roadmap, aiming to promote sustainable growth and contribute to a greener, more prosperous Africa.

The values of the chair GCZSC

Sustainability First

For us, development isn’t just about progress—it’s about making sure it’s environmentally friendly and socially responsible.

Driving Economic Growth

By developing and sharing new technologies, we aim to support businesses, encourage innovation, and strengthen economies.

A Vision for Africa

Our work is driven by a desire to “Feed and Green Africa,” contributing to the region’s growth and prosperity in meaningful ways.

Research and Innovation

We believe in the power of science and technology to solve complex problems, especially those faced by Africa.

Preparing Future Leaders

Education is at our core. We focus on using the latest teaching methods to equip the next generation with the skills they need for a better future.

Excellence in Science

We strive to create impactful research and share knowledge through publications, seminars, and events that inspire learning and discovery.

Responsibility to Society

We’re committed to creating green solutions that not only care for the planet but also provide jobs and improve lives in our communities.

Mission of the chair GCZSC

  1. Support research and innovation: Enhance the dynamic growth of research and innovation at UM6P.
  2. Contribute to sustainable development: Help implement the green investment roadmap, focused on creating a greener and more developed Africa.
  3. Collaborate with other entities: Work in synergy with the Institute of Advanced Studies (IAS), the Transition Chair, and various UM6P entities to coordinate efforts.
  4. Encourage multidisciplinary partnerships: Promote collaboration across disciplines and entities to maximize the impact of research projects.

Meet the Team

Nahon

Daniel Nahon

Director of the Global Critical Zone Science Chair

I’m Daniel Nahon, a geoscientist specializing in geochemistry and the petrology of soils and the weathering mantle of rocks, with a particular focus on tropical soils and critical zone research. My work is centered on understanding Earth’s environmental systems, especially addressing soil degradation and sustainable land management mechanisms. I am passionate about advancing knowledge in these fields to promote more sustainable practices for managing our planet’s natural resources. Currently, I serve as the Director of the Global Critical Zone Science Chair (IAS/UM6P), where we conduct research and develop solutions to protect and manage the Earth’s critical zone.
Hudson

Hudson Carvalho

Associate Professor at UM6P

I am Hudson Carvalho, an Associate Professor at UM6P specializing in agrichemistry and agricultural nanotechnology. My research focuses on understanding the complex processes of nutrient absorption and transport in plants, particularly how nutrients applied to leaves are absorbed and utilized. I hold both bachelor’s and doctoral degrees in chemistry, and prior to my current role, I contributed to groundbreaking research at the Soleil Synchrotron in France, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany, and the University of São Paulo in Brazil.
Yassir

Yassir Abouaimad

Project Management Officer

I am Yassir Abouaimad, holding a double engineering degree from the Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II in Morocco and the National School for Water and Environmental Engineering of Strasbourg in France. As a hydrologist, I have worked as a teaching assistant at the Catholic University of Louvain. Currently, I serve as the Project Management Officer of the Global Critical Zone Science Chair, where I focus on problem-solving and overseeing projects related to critical zone research.
Ouazizizi

Maryam Elouaazizi

Senior Laboratory Technician

I’m Maryam Elouaazizi, and I hold a bachelor’s degree in biology from the Faculty of Sciences in Rabat, where I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Analytical Sciences and Instrumentation. I began my career in 2010 as a lab technician, gaining experience in microbiology and chemistry by conducting analyses on soil, plants, and water. I later advanced to roles such as Technical Manager and Soil Laboratory Manager, focusing on agricultural and environmental analysis.
Ikram

Wasiq
Ikram

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

I am Wasiq Ikram, currently working as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Global Critical Zone Science Chair at UM6P, Benguerir, Morocco. I completed my doctoral studies in Biological Sciences (Plant Nutrition Management) at PIEAS, Islamabad, Pakistan. Previously, I served as a Research Fellow with the Soil Ecology Research Group at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. My primary research focuses on Plant Nutrition Management and Soil-Plant interactions, with a particular emphasis on effective nutrient cycling, especially phosphorus.
AMzad

Amzad Mohamed

Laboratory technician

My name is Amzad Mohamed, I am 30 years old and currently work as a laboratory technician at the GCZSC laboratory, where I specialize in research and supporting PhD students. I hold a Master’s degree in Chemometrics and Chemical Analysis, with expertise in environmental and agronomic analyses of soils, water, fertilizers, and organic materials, as well as extensive knowledge of chemical analysis techniques. My academic background and professional experience enable me to contribute effectively to scientific research and quality assurance.
Faiza

Faiza Chergui Darif

Office Manager

I am Faiza Chergui Darif. I hold a Master’s degree in Territory, Employment, and Human Resources Management from Rennes 2 University, a Master’s in Human Resources Management from Aix-Marseille University, and an MBA in Audit and Management Control from Paris. Currently, I serve as the Office Manager of the Global Critical Zone Science Chair. My main responsibilities include coordinating human resources, managing finances and budgets, overseeing general services, and organizing various events. My role is to ensure that all processes are carried out efficiently and within the required deadlines.

Latest Projects

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Advanced School on Tropical Agriculture (ASTA)

ASTA is a collaborative initiative led by Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), the University of São Paulo (USP), and the OCP Foundation, this program aims to provide high-level training to students, professionals, and future agricultural leaders in Africa. By focusing on sustainable agricultural practices, it seeks to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to address the critical agricultural challenges facing the continent today.

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Biochar Project

This project focuses on testing the effectiveness of fertilizers enhanced with biochar. It consists of two main trials. The first trial will take place in the laboratory, where different types of fertilizers will be combined with varying amounts of biochar. The goal is to test how these combinations affect the fertilizer's quality and nutrient release over time. The second trial will be conducted in glasshouses in two countries, where fertilizers with and without biochar will be tested in different soils. The project will measure the impact on corn growth by observing how well the plants grow and the nutrients they absorb.

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Cordoba Project

The project aims to demonstrate the benefits of combining Conservation Agriculture and the 4R Plus approach in field conditions. By focusing on sustainable practices like minimal soil disturbance, proper nutrient management, and efficient fertilizer use, the project seeks to improve nutrient use efficiency, reduce costs, and increase crop yields, ultimately boosting farmer profitability and promoting environmental sustainability.