Lyesse Laloui

Lyesse Laloui is a Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), where he directs the Laboratory for Soil Mechanics. He holds influential positions including European Vice President of the International Society of Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE) and Full Member of the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences.

His research spans geomechanics, geo-energy, and sustainable development. Key interests include energy geostructures, biomediated soils, smart urban design, soil mechanics, geothermal energy, and climate change adaptation. His work, inspired by natural systems, develops innovative technologies for renewable energy integration and resource optimization.

Prof. Laloui's scientific contributions are recognized by prestigious awards:

• European Innovation Council (EIC) Grant (2023)
• Doctorate Honoris Causa from University of Cluj-Napoca (2022) and Heriot-Watt University (2022)
• Vienna Terzaghi Lecture (2022)
• ERC Proof of Concept Grant (2020)
• Kersten Lecture (2020)
• Advanced ERC Grant (2018)
• RM Quigley Award (2016)
• 30th Roberval Award (2018)
• Interpore Kimberly-Clark Distinguished Lectureship Award (2026)
• DFI John Mitchell Lecture (2025)

He has secured major research grants including multiple ERC grants and founded five startups, notably Enerdrape (Swiss Top 100 in 2023-2024). As a thesis supervisor, he has guided numerous students. His extensive publication record includes over 380 papers and 13 books.

Prof. Laloui leads the Laboratory for Soil Mechanics, Geo-engineering and CO2 Storage at EPFL, fostering a collaborative environment for advancing sustainable geotechnical solutions and urban underground space development.