Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Anissa LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI was born on January 30, 1967, in Algiers, Algeria. Her academic journey began with a focus on biotechnologies and food industries, culminating in a Doctorate from the Institut National Polytechnique de Lorraine (INPL) at the École Nationale Supérieure d’Agronomie et des Industries Alimentaires (ENSAIA) in Nancy in 1994. This foundational phase set the stage for her future academic and research endeavors.

Her postdoctoral research work began in 1995 at the Laboratoire de Microbiologie at ENSAIA, followed by a significant role at the Laboratoire de Mycologie/Phytopathologie/Environnement (LMPE) at the Université du Littoral Côte d’Opale (ULCO) in 1996. This period was marked by intensive research in mycology and phytopathology, which laid the groundwork for her later contributions to environmental chemistry and plant-fungi interactions.

Professional Endeavors 🏛️

Anissa’s professional career is distinguished by her tenure at ULCO, where she has been a pivotal figure in advancing research and education in environmental chemistry. She became a Maîtresse de Conférences (MCF) in 1998, advancing to a Professorship in 2015. Her habilitation to supervise research (HDR) in 2006 marked her as a leading academic in her field.

Her roles have extended beyond teaching into leadership positions. She has served as the Head of the Interactions Plantes-Champignons (IPCR) team and Director of the first-year Life Sciences program at ULCO. Her responsibilities include overseeing significant research projects and directing academic programs, reflecting her deep commitment to both education and research.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌿🔬

Professor LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI’s research is centered on the interactions between plants and fungi, focusing on phytomanagement, soil decontamination, and biocontrol of wheat fungal diseases. Her work addresses both fundamental and applied aspects, from in vitro cultures and microcosms to large-scale field demonstrations.

Her research aims to elucidate the technical feasibility and mechanisms involved in phytoremediation processes, such as rhizodegradation of organic pollutants, phytostabilization, and phytoextraction of trace elements. She explores the role of mycorrhizal fungi and soil amendments in these processes and is particularly interested in soil microbiota characterization and biomass valorization from polluted soils.

LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI has also been involved in several significant research projects, including PHYTEO, DEPHYTOP, and DEFIWAIDE, further demonstrating her impact in the field.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Professor LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI has received numerous accolades throughout her career. In 2018, she was honored as a Chevalier in the Ordre des Palmes Académiques, recognizing her contributions to education and research. Her scholarly work is widely acknowledged, with an h-index of 31 and over 3,600 citations, highlighting her influence in the academic community.

She has published extensively, with 108 papers in international peer-reviewed journals, 10 book chapters, and numerous communications at scientific congresses. Her participation in public science communication through press conferences, TV shows, and interviews underscores her commitment to making science accessible to a broader audience.

Impact and Influence 🌍

The impact of Anissa LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI’s work extends beyond academia into practical applications in environmental science. Her research on plant-fungi interactions has significant implications for soil remediation and sustainable agriculture, contributing to the development of new techniques for managing contaminated environments.

Her role in directing research projects and supervising doctoral and postdoctoral researchers demonstrates her influence in shaping the next generation of scientists. Her extensive teaching responsibilities further reflect her dedication to education and her impact on the academic community.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Looking forward, Professor LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI’s legacy will be defined by her continued contributions to environmental chemistry and her role in advancing the field of plant-fungi interactions. Her research promises to offer further insights into effective bioremediation techniques and sustainable practices for managing polluted soils.

Her ongoing leadership in research projects and academic programs at ULCO ensures that her impact will be felt for years to come. As she continues to explore new frontiers in environmental science, her work will likely inspire future research and drive innovations in the field.

Anissa LOUNES – HADJ SAHRAOUI’s career reflects a deep commitment to both research and education, and her contributions have established her as a leading figure in her field.