Dr. Walid Maherzi | Organic Award | Best Researcher Award
Dr. Walid Maherzi, IMT Nord Europe, France
Dr. Walid Maherzi is an accomplished Assistant Professor at IMT Nord Europe in Douai, France, where he also serves as Head of the Analytical Testing and Observation Unit at the Materials and Processes Research and Innovation Center. With a strong academic foundation, Dr. Maherzi holds a Habilitation to Conduct Research in Civil Engineering from the University of Lille (2023), a Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry from the University of Normandy (2013), an M.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Lyon 1 (2009), and an Engineering Degree in Public Works from the National School of Public Works, Algeria (2007), where he graduated as the top student. Dr. Maherzi’s research focuses on sustainable construction materials and circular economy applications, particularly the valorization of sediments and industrial by-products. As a Principal Investigator, he has led numerous high-impact projects funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Interreg European Program, securing over €7 million in grants. His work has advanced innovative solutions in sediment reuse, eco-materials, and low-carbon construction.
Professional Profile 🎓
Suitability for the Award 🌍
Dr. Maherzi’s contributions to sustainable construction materials and his ability to secure major funding while mentoring students and advancing scholarly work make him a standout candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His leadership in both academic and applied research underscores his impact on addressing global challenges through engineering and innovation.
Education 📚
- 2023 – University of Lille, France
- Habilitation to Conduct Research in Civil Engineering
- 2013 – University of Normandy, France
- Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry
- Advisor: Prof. M. Boutouil
- 2009 – University of Lyon 1 – Claude Bernard, France
- M.S. in Civil Engineering
- Advisor: Prof. P. Hamelin
- 2007 – National School of Public Works, Algiers, Algeria
- Engineering Degree in Public Works (Rank: First)
Work Experience 💼
- 2017–Present – IMT Nord Europe, Lille, France
- Assistant Professor
- Head of the Analytical Testing and Observation Unit, Materials and Processes Research and Innovation Center
- Focus: Geotechnical and Civil Engineering, Circular Economy in Construction
- 2013–2017 – Materials and Processes Research and Innovation Center, Mines-Telecom Institute, Lille, France
- Postdoctoral Researcher in Civil Engineering
- 2009–2012 – College of Construction Technology (ESITC Caen), University of Normandy, France
- Ph.D. Student in Civil Engineering
Awards and Recognition 🏆
- 2019: First Prize in the BQR Annual Best Proposed Subject for Student Internship at LGCgE.
- Project: Life Cycle Analysis of Low Carbon Binder Based on Flash Calcined Mineral Wastes.
- 2009: Full Scholarship from the Interreg Europe Program to pursue a Ph.D. in Material Chemistry at the University of Normandy-Caen, France.
- 2002-2007: First Rank in Civil Engineering at the National School of Public Works (ENSTP), Algiers, Algeria.
Research Skills 🔬
- Geotechnical Engineering:
- Foundation optimization, soil reinforcement, embankment stability.
- Stability of structures and vibratory phenomena in engineering applications.
- Materials Chemistry and Circular Economy:
- Valorization of industrial by-products and dredged sediments in civil engineering applications.
- Development of eco-friendly binders, geopolymers, and low-carbon materials.
- Recycling mineral wastes for construction materials like concrete, bricks, and tiles.
- Sustainability and Resource Management:
- Expertise in circular economy principles, particularly in sustainable construction materials.
- Lifecycle analysis of recovered and recycled materials in building applications.
- Analytical Techniques:
- Proficient in advanced material characterization tools like XRF, XRD, and SEM.
- Project Leadership and Grants Management:
- Extensive experience as Principal Investigator (PI) for high-budget research projects funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Interreg Programs.
- Successful execution of multidisciplinary projects on sediment reuse, mineral waste recycling, and sustainable road construction.