Driss MOULOUA | Nanomaterials | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Driss MOULOUA | Nanomaterials | Young Scientist Award

Postdoc, LTM/CEA-Leti, France

🌟 Driss Mouloua, a dynamic researcher in nanomaterials, optoelectronics, and nanophotonics, currently serves as a postdoctoral researcher at the CNRS Laboratory of Microelectronics Technology (LTM) at CEA/LETI, Grenoble, France. Born on July 29, 1994, in Morocco, Driss pursued his passion for science through a journey across multiple countries and prestigious institutions. With a PhD in Materials Science and Optoelectronics (2020–2023), earned through a cotutelle program between INRS in Quebec, Canada, and UPJV in Amiens, France, he specializes in nanostructures for solar energy and photocatalysis. Driss’s exceptional academic journey includes advanced degrees in renewable energy and sustainable engineering. Multilingual and equipped with expertise in advanced research tools, Driss has authored numerous high-impact publications in semiconductor physics, micro/nanofabrication, and 2D materials. With his innovative work, Driss continues to contribute to the advancement of micro-LEDs, lasers, and nanophotonic devices.

Profile

Education 

🎓 Driss Mouloua’s educational journey reflects his dedication to cutting-edge materials science and renewable energy. He earned a PhD in Materials Science, Optoelectronics, and Photocatalysis (2020–2023) through a cotutelle program between INRS in Quebec, Canada, and UPJV in Amiens, France. His doctoral research focused on MoS₂-based nanostructures for solar energy capture and photocatalysis, under funding from Hauts-de-France and NSERC.

In 2018–2019, he completed a Master’s in Materials Processing and Engineering for Sustainable Development at Arts et Métiers ParisTech in Bordeaux-Talence, France. This followed his 2016–2018 Master’s in Renewable Energies and Storage Technologies from Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco. Driss also undertook specialized internships in photonic applications and radiative cooling at the University of Birmingham, UK, and UPNA, Spain. With an extensive academic foundation and global research exposure, Driss excels in advancing nanomaterials and optoelectronics.

Experience 

💼 Driss Mouloua has cultivated a robust research portfolio through diverse roles in prestigious institutions. Since June 2023, he has been a postdoctoral researcher at CNRS/LTM at CEA/LETI, Grenoble, where he focuses on integrating micro-LEDs and III-V semiconductor lasers on silicon for infrared applications.

His previous experiences include a Master’s internship (2019) at the University of Birmingham, UK, researching photonic metamaterials, and a Master’s internship (2018) at UPNA, Spain, exploring radiative cooling using photonic crystals and metasurfaces. During his PhD (2020–2023), Driss developed MoS₂-based nanostructures for energy and photocatalysis, conducting research across Canada and France.

In each role, Driss has honed his expertise in semiconductor physics, nanofabrication, and optoelectronics. Proficient in cutting-edge simulation tools like COMSOL and Python, Driss applies his skills to innovative projects with global impact, advancing technologies in renewable energy and photonics.

Research Focus 

🔬 Driss Mouloua’s research emphasizes cutting-edge advancements in nanomaterials, optoelectronics, and energy applications. He specializes in semiconductor physics, focusing on the fabrication and characterization of nanostructures such as MoS₂-based materials. His PhD research investigated MoS₂ nanostructures for solar energy capture and photocatalysis, demonstrating significant enhancements in photodetection and energy conversion.Currently, his work at CNRS/LTM explores monolithic integration of III-V semiconductor lasers and micro-LEDs on silicon platforms, aiming to revolutionize infrared optoelectronic devices. Driss also engages in designing metasurfaces and photonic crystals for passive radiative cooling and advanced photonics.Employing simulation tools like COMSOL and Nextnano+, Driss investigates nanoscale properties of materials to optimize performance in photonic and energy applications. His interdisciplinary focus bridges fundamental science and practical applications, driving innovations in renewable energy, 2D materials, and scalable micro/nanofabrication.

Publications

📘Recent Progress in the Synthesis of MoS₂ Thin Films for Sensing, Photovoltaic, and Plasmonic Applications: A Review
📗 One-Step Chemically Vapor Deposited Hybrid 1T-MoS₂/2H-MoS₂ Heterostructures Towards Methylene Blue Photodegradation
📙 Fabrication Control of MoS₂/MoO₂ Nanocomposite via Chemical Vapor Deposition for Optoelectronic Applications
📕 Broadband Photodetection Using One-Step CVD-Fabricated MoS₂/MoO₂ Microflower/Microfiber Heterostructures
📓 Tuning Optoelectronic Properties of Pulsed Laser Deposited “3D”‐MoS₂ Films via Vertical Alignment
📒 Giant Photodegradation Rate Enabled by Vertically Grown 1T/2H MoS₂ Catalyst on Silver Nanoparticles
📖 Scalable Optical Dye Sensors Based on Differential Reflectivity by MoS₂ Nanostructures
📔 Enhanced Photodetection Properties of CVD-Grown MoS₂ Nanosheets on Ag-Decorated Substrates
📚 Exploring Strategies for Performance Enhancement in Micro-LEDs: A Synoptic Review of III‐V Semiconductor Technology

Florian Glauche | Micro and Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Mr Florian Glauche | Micro and Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Mr Florian Glauche, Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems (ENAS), Germany

Florian Glauche is a dedicated researcher specializing in nanotechnology with a focus on creating innovative microstructures. Currently pursuing an industry-based PhD at TU Bergakademie Freiberg, his research is supported by an ESF scholarship and aims to develop flexible, adhesive, and functional microstructures. With a diploma in Nanotechnology from TU Bergakademie Freiberg and a background enriched by diverse international experiences, Florian has worked with leading research institutions, including the Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems. His interdisciplinary skills span microstructuring, material characterization, and MEMS technology, and he has contributed to advancing Parylene-based microstructures.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

  1. Relevant Research Experience:
    • Florian has been involved in an industry-based PhD project focused on creating flexible, adhesive, and functional microstructures. This experience demonstrates a high level of research capability in a specialized field, which is highly relevant to the award.
  2. Publication Record:
    • The CV includes a journal article titled “Hot Embossing to Fabricate Parylene-Based Microstructures and Its Impact on the Material Properties” published in Polymers. This indicates a contribution to significant research in the field of nanotechnology and materials science.
  3. Diverse International Experience:
    • Florian has participated in research exchanges and internships at prestigious institutions like Tohoku University and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Such international exposure reflects a global perspective and adaptability in research.
  4. Strong Academic Background:
    • A diploma in Nanotechnology with a final grade of 1.6 and an ongoing PhD project funded by an ESF scholarship highlights both strong academic performance and the ability to secure competitive funding.
  5. Technical Skills:
    • Proficiency in various software tools and programming languages (e.g., LabVIEW, Origin, Matlab, Solidworks) showcases a well-rounded technical skill set important for research and development.
  6. Volunteer and Leadership Experience:
    • Active involvement in organizing student events and voluntary work as a dance teacher demonstrates leadership skills and a well-rounded character, which can be beneficial in collaborative research environments.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Research Output:
    • While the CV lists a relevant publication, it could benefit from a broader range of research outputs (e.g., conference presentations, additional journal articles) to strengthen the case for the award.
  2. Impact and Citation Metrics:
    • More information on the impact and citation metrics of the published work could provide additional evidence of Florian’s research influence and recognition in the field.
  3. Future Research Plans:
    • Including details on future research goals or planned projects could provide insight into Florian’s long-term vision and potential for continued contributions to the field.

Education

Florian Glauche is pursuing a PhD at TU Bergakademie Freiberg, starting in September 2023, with a focus on creating flexible, adhesive, and functional microstructures. He completed his diploma in Nanotechnology from TU Bergakademie Freiberg in August 2023, achieving a final grade of 1.6. Prior to this, Florian attended Martin-Luther-Gymnasium in Frankenberg/Sa., where he obtained his Abitur with a final grade of 2.0. His education reflects a strong foundation in nanotechnology and a commitment to advancing his expertise through rigorous academic and research pursuits.

Experience

Florian Glauche has accumulated significant research experience at the Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems, starting as an intern in 2013 and advancing to an assistant scientist and researcher. His roles included microstructuring of flexible substrates, MEMS characterization, and biocompatible encapsulation. His industry-based PhD research involves the creation of functional microstructures. Additionally, Florian has gained valuable experience through internships at a textile printing factory and a workshop focused on practical preparation for studies and work.

Research Focus

Florian Glauche’s research focuses on developing flexible, adhesive, and functional microstructures, with particular expertise in micro- and nanostructuring of surfaces. His work at the Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems includes biocompatible encapsulation and MEMS technology. His PhD project, funded by an ESF scholarship, aims to push the boundaries of microstructure functionality and flexibility. Florian’s research is also marked by his investigation into Parylene-based microstructures, contributing to advancements in optical applications and material properties.

Publication Top Notes

  • Hot Embossing to Fabricate Parylene-Based Microstructures and Its Impact on the Material Properties (Polymers, 2024-08-03) 🌟🔬

Conclusion

Florian Glauche is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award, given his relevant research experience, strong academic background, technical skills, and international exposure. The primary areas for enhancement involve expanding the range of research outputs and providing more information on the impact of his work and future research plans. Addressing these areas could further strengthen his candidacy for the award.