Prof. Lyesse Laloui Featured in Ground Engineering Magazine
© 2025 EPFL/Zuzanna Adamczewska
"The synergy between rigorous scientific research and real-world applications is not only challenging but immensely rewarding."
EPFL's Laboratory of Soil Mechanics (LMS) Director, Prof. Lyesse Laloui, has recently been featured in an insightful interview in one of the leading magazines in geotechnical engineering, Ground Engineering Magazine, where he shared his vision, ongoing projects, and perspectives on the future of geotechnical engineering.
In this wide-ranging interview, Prof. Laloui emphasizes his dedication to translating cutting-edge research into tangible engineering solutions, strongly focusing on sustainable urban infrastructure through pioneering energy geostructures and ground stabilization techniques. Using some of his many innovative projects, such as Switzerland's tallest timber structure, Tilia Tower, he demonstrates the real and transformative potential of integrating energy-efficient elements directly into building designs—a concept he described as unimaginable just three decades ago.
"The synergy between rigorous scientific research and real-world applications is not only challenging but immensely rewarding," says Prof. Laloui. His passion for this approach extends through collaboration with prominent global platforms, including the Deep Foundations Institute (DFI), European Federation of Foundation Contractors (EFFC), and his leadership roles within the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE) and Associated Research Centers for Urban Underground Space (ACUUS).
Prof. Laloui also shared his insights into attracting the next generation to geotechnical engineering, highlighting the sector's pivotal role in shaping resilient urban environments of the future. He stresses the importance of embracing digital advancements, AI-driven geotechnics, and renewable energy solutions to showcase the dynamic and innovative nature of the field.
However, Prof. Laloui argues that in order to ensure a bright future for the industry, continual advancement must be firmly grounded in scientific principles, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and maintaining a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
Prof. Laloui will deliver the prestigious John Mitchell Lecture at the upcoming 2025 DFI-EFFC conference in Bruges, Belgium, where he will discuss revolutionary advancements in thermo-active piling engineering, marking another significant milestone in his leadership in sustainable geotechnical solutions.
For further details, the entire interview is in the latest edition of Ground Engineering Magazine.