Academia Europaea Member Prof. Lyesse Laloui Named 2026 Kimberly-Clark Distinguished Lecturer#
Academia Europaea is pleased to share that Professor Lyesse Laloui, a member of the Earth and Cosmic Sciences section of the Academy and Director of the Laboratory of Soil Mechanics
at EPFL, has been named the 2026 Distinguished Lecturer by the International Society for Porous Media (InterPore).
This prestigious international lectureship recognizes researchers who have made exceptional contributions to the field of porous media. Prof. Laloui is a world-leading expert in geomechanics and geo-energy systems, whose work has advanced scientific understanding and practical applications in areas including carbon sequestration, bio-stabilized soils, and sustainable subsurface energy systems. The citation for the award was : Professor Laloui is an acclaimed scientist, a highly respected engineer, an innovative inventor, an accomplished manager, a serial entrepreneur, a visionary trend-setter, an outstanding teacher, a thoughtful mentor, and an influential public figure. His lectures will inspire the world via his experience, expertise, and work on the science of porous media.
As Distinguished Lecturer, Prof. Laloui will deliver a global series of lectures in 2026, addressing two major themes:
- Tailoring Soil Properties Through Bio-Geo-Chemical Engineering
- Carbon Dioxide Injection into Deep Aquifers: A Geomechanical Perspective
Further information on the lecture series—including lecture descriptions, Professor Laloui’s biography, and how to request a visit—is available at
- https://www.interpore.org/foundation/kimberly-clark-distinguished-lectureship-award
- Lecture flyer (pdf)
Prof. Laloui’s selection reflects the growing global relevance of porous media research in addressing climate resilience and environmental challenges. His lectures will offer unique insight into the scientific frontiers of porous media science and sustainable subsurface engineering.
About Lyesse Laloui#
Lyesse Laloui is a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology at Lausanne (EPFL) where he directs the Laboratory for Soil Mechanics.
He is a world-renowned expert in geomechanics and geo-energy. Inspired by the intricate systems of the natural world, his groundbreaking research into the physical mechanisms of geomaterials has unlocked innovative technologies crucial for addressing climate change, resource optimization, and the widespread adoption of renewable energy.
His impact is underscored by prestigious awards, including an Advanced ERC Grant (2018), an ERC Proof of Concept Grant (2020), and an EiC Transition Grant (2023). Prof. Laloui’s international recognition is further solidified by two honoris causae (Heriot-Watt University, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca) in recognition of his sustainability leadership.
Prof. Laloui holds positions within the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences, Academia Europaea, and the Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects and serves as European Vice President for the International Society of Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering. As Director for Europe of the International Associated Research Centers for the Urban Underground Space, he advances global efforts in sustainable urban development.
