The NISM institute federates the research activities of the chemistry and physics departments at the University of Namur. Research at the NISM institute focuses on various research topics in organic chemistry, physical chemistry, (nano)-materials chemistry, surface sciences, optics and photonics, solid state physics, both from a theoretical and an experimental point of view.
The institute's researchers have recognized expertise in the synthesis and functionalization of innovative molecular systems and materials, from 0 to 3 dimensions. They develop analytical and numerical modeling tools for the rational design of molecules and (nano)-materials with specific architectures that confer functional final properties.

They are supported by a technology park of advanced experimental techniques for studying the chemical and physical properties of these systems at micro- and nanometric scales. The research carried out within the institute falls within the field of both fundamental research, aimed at understanding and predicting the properties of structured matter, and applied research, with the aim of developing functional materials and devices.
NISM's lines of research are currently grouped into four poles, whose perimeters are flexible, reflecting the transdisciplinarity of the research themes and the collaborative dynamic between poles.
Each cluster is represented by a permanent scientist and a non-permanent scientist who, together with the institute's president and vice-president, form the institute's executive committee.
The institute's executive committee is made up of the president and vice-president of the institute.NISM research poles
Research at NISM is identified by four poles which highlight the main scientific activities carried out within the institute. Each pole is a well-defined structure with members, and is managed by the pole representative. The structuring of the pole does not prevent ongoing cooperation between them. Indeed, there is well-established interaction between the various poles, through joint projects, conferences, seminars, co-supervision of master's and doctoral theses, among others.
Spotlight
News

Towards highly energy-efficient smart windows?
Towards highly energy-efficient smart windows?
Researchers at ULiège and UNamur are developing a new electrochromic material: MoWOx.

- This research, still at the experimental stage, is based on a new formulation of electrochromic material: MoWOx, a mixed molybdenum-tungsten oxide
- This advance makes it possible to envisage "dual-band" functionality, i.e. selective and independent modulation of incoming light and heat flows
- The results have been published in the journals Advanced Optical Materials and ACS Applied Optical Materials
Scientists from the University of Liège (ULiège) and the University of Namur (UNamur) have developed an innovative electrochromic material capable of independently regulating light and heat in buildings. This breakthrough, based on a mixed molybdenum-tungsten oxide (MoWOx), paves the way for even more efficient and energy-saving smart windows.
Electrochromic windows are smart glazings capable of modulating their coloration, or more generally their state of transparency or opacity, when an external electric current is applied to it. This property makes it possible to control the intensity of solar radiation entering a building, without the need for blinds or curtains. This type of window is already manufactured industrially and used technologically in some buildings, but current products do not allow separate control of visible light (VIS) and near-infrared radiation (NIR), respectively linked to incident brightness and heat.
Researchers at ULiège and UNamur, thanks to support from the Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique (FNRS), have thus developed a new formulation of electrochromic material, entitled MoWOx, based on a "dual-band" functionality enabling selective and independent modulation of incoming light and heat fluxes.
Through this new formulation, the scientific teams have demonstrated the occurrence of an innovative optical mode, known as "warm", for the first time for this type of oxide. In this mode, the glass remains transparent to infrared radiation, allowing heat to pass through, while only partially filtering out visible light. This feature is particularly interesting for cold climates and winter periods, where maximizing solar heat gain while reducing solar glare can significantly reduce building energy consumption, particularly in terms of heating and artificial lighting.
.A plasmonic nanomaterial for advanced optical filtration
This "dual-band" functionality is based on the incorporation of nanostructured plasmonic compounds into the smart glass. A plasmonic material is one whose free electrons can oscillate collectively under the effect of light. It can then selectively absorb, reflect or scatter light, depending on its composition and structure. And it is precisely in the application of these plasmonic properties of MoWOx to the case of smart glazing that this innovation lies.
On this basis, the composition and morphology of plasmonic nanostructures directly influence the optical selectivity of filtering, enabling glazing to be tailored more precisely to users' needs.
.A promising application for the buildings of the future
Future intelligent glazing incorporating these new components could ultimately revolutionize energy management in buildings. In a context where the energy transition remains a top priority, these innovative windows will help to achieve carbon neutrality targets and build near-zero energy buildings.
Florian Gillissen, researcher at the University of Liège and first author of the paper published in Advanced Optical Materials:"Thanks to this technology, we can adjust the transmission of light and heat through windows in real time, which represents a giant step forward for the energy optimization of buildings."
Professor Michaël Lobet, FNRS Qualified Researcher and first author of the paper published in ACS Applied Optical Materials: "Theoretical and numerical modeling was carried out at UNamur in Professor Luc Henrard's team, while material synthesis and characterization was carried out under the direction of Professor Rudi Cloots and Dr. Anthony Maho from the University of Liège. It is these synergies between theoretical modeling and fabrication that have enabled the characterization of these MoWOx materials."
Scientific references
Florian Gillissen, Michaël Lobet, Jennifer Dewalque, Pierre Colson, Gilles Spronck, Rachel Gouttebaron, Mathieu Duttine, Brandon Faceira, Aline Rougier, Luc Henrard, Rudi Cloots, Anthony Maho, Mixed Molybdenum–Tungsten Oxide as Dual-Band, VIS–NIR Selective Electrochromic Material, Advanced Optical Materials
https://doi.org/10.1002/adom.202401995
Michaël Lobet, Florian Gillissen, Nicolas De Moor, Jennifer Dewalque, Pierre Colson, Rudi Cloots, Anthony Maho, Luc Henrard, Plasmonic Properties of Doped Metal Oxides Investigated through the Kubelka-Munk Formalism, ACS Applied Optical Materials
https://doi.org/10.1021/acsaom.4c00432
Cette étude a été menée dans le cadre du projet PLASMON_EC, financé par le FNRS, en collaboration entre le laboratoire GREEnMat de l’Université de Liège et l’Institut de la matière structurée (NISM) de l’Université de Namur, en connexion étroite avec des chercheurs de l’Institut de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Bordeaux (ICMCB).


FNRS 2024 calls: Focus on the NISM Institute
FNRS 2024 calls: Focus on the NISM Institute
Several researchers at the Namur Institute of Structured Matter (NISM) have recently been awarded funding from the F.R.S - FNRS following calls whose results were published in December 2024. The NISM Institute federates the research activities of the chemistry and physics departments of the University of Namur.

Luca Fusaro: "Crystallization of complex phases in confined space
The aim of this FNRS-funded research project (PDR) is to deepen knowledge of the complex crystalline phases of simple salts. The project aims to strengthen international research activities, which began in 2016 and led to the publication of the first results in Nature in 2021. Read the article online...
In this study, the researchers had isolated four different crystalline phases from a salt of Fampridine, an organic compound used to treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Two crystalline phases showed remarkable complexity, belonging to the special class of Frank and Kasper (FK) phases.

FK phases have been known since 1959 as a large family of metal alloys, but the study demonstrated that simple pharmaceutical molecules can crystallize with similar complexity, something not previously known.
With this new project, the researchers aim to go one step further, using mainly solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques on powders and single crystals. This study will be carried out in collaboration with other researchers at the NISM Institute (Nikolay Tumanov, Carmela Aprile and Johan Wouters), as well as collaborators working in other countries, such as Riccardo Montis (University of Urbino, Italy) and Simon Coles (Director of the National Crystallography Service (NCS), University of Southampton, UK).
Stéphane Vincent (with UCLouvain): "NPN cofactor synthesis and roles".
The research project (PDR) "NPN cofactor synthesis and roles" is at the interface between fundamental biochemistry and enzymology. It is based on the recent discovery, by a team at UCLouvain, of a new cofactor, named NPN, with a highly original structure. It is a dinucleotide bearing a nickel complex. It is involved in important enzymatic reactions, but little is known about its reactivity, biosynthesis and mechanism of action. Moreover, it is present in 20% of bacterial genomes and 50% of Archaea (archaeobacteria) genomes, but only a tiny fraction of the enzymes employing it have been characterized.
The research project is based on the complementary expertise of Benoit Desguin (UCLouvain, biochemistry) and Stéphane Vincent (bio-organic chemistry). The main aim of the project is to understand the role and mechanism of this cofactor through biochemical, structural and kinetic studies. Analogues of the NPN cofactor will be synthesized by the UNamur team: they will be designed to elucidate the mode of interaction and reaction of the NPN cofactor with the enzymes employing it.
Johan Wouters (with UCLouvain): "Crystallization-based deracémisation in the era of green chemistry".
This research project (PDR) is a co-promotion of Professors Tom Leyssens (UCLouvain) and Johan Wouters (UNamur). It aims to bring the process of uprooting by crystallization into the era of "green chemistry".
Uprooting is a term used in chemistry to describe the process of separating a racemic mixture into its two enantiomers, i.e. the chiral (left and right) forms of a molecule. In the pharmaceutical industry, 50% of marketed drug compounds contain a chiral center, which is essential to their functioning. When one enantiomer has the desired pharmacological effect, the other may be inactive or have undesirable effects. For this reason, new drugs are often marketed as enantiopure compounds (i.e. free of their impure "chiral twin").
The most common way of obtaining chiral drugs still involves the formation of a racemic mixture. This can then be produced by chemical or physical separation techniques, with a yield loss of 50%. If the compound in question is "racemizable", the unwanted enantiomer can technically be converted back into a racemic mixture, resulting in a theoretical yield of 100%. Over the past decade, various crystallization-based uprooting methodologies have been developed. However, all these methods require the use of large quantities of solvent, as they are crystallization processes.
This research aims to take these processes to the next level, not only by making them more efficient (less time-consuming), but also by bringing them into the realm of "green chemistry". To this end, the researchers are proposing mechanochemical variants for conglomerates and racemic compounds.
These processes will be
- Inherently "green", since the unwanted enantiomer is transformed into the desired enantiomer;
- Enabled by mechanochemistry, which eliminates the need for solvent, making them "greener" than solution-based methods.
- The "greenest" possible, thanks to their efficiency (very fast timescale and low energy consumption).
Catherine Michaux, Stéphane Vincent and Guillaume Berionni were awarded equipment financing (EQP).
This funding will enable the acquisition of high-throughput isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) equipment, unique in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation. This is a high-resolution, non-destructive method enabling complete characterization of the chemical details of an interaction in solution.
His acquisition will enable UNamur chemists, but also their collaborators, to analyze any bond, in a vast field of application, extending from biochemistry to supramolecular chemistry.
FRIA doctoral scholarship - Noah Deveaux (PI - Benoît Champagne)
"ONL molecular switches "in all their states": from solutions to functionalized surfaces and solids."
This PhD thesis within the Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory (Department of Chemistry) and the Multiscale Modeling through High-Performance Computing (HPC-MM) Cluster of the NISM Institute aims to develop innovative multiscale computational methodologies to study and optimize multistate and multifunctional molecular switches, key components of logic devices and new generations of data storage technologies.
In addition to variations in linear optical responses, it is advantageous to consider changes in nonlinear optical responses (NLOs), which enable high-resolution data readout while avoiding their destruction. The main objective is to predict and interpret the ONL responses of these molecular switches in different matter environments, namely in solution, grafted onto surfaces and in the solid state.
In addition, particular attention will be paid to modeling defects and orientational disorder within materials to better represent real-world conditions. These predictive methods will be validated experimentally through close collaborations with synthesis and characterization teams.
FNRS, la liberté de chercher
Chaque année, le F.R.S.-FNRS lance des appels pour financer la recherche fondamentale. Il a mis en place une gamme d'outils permettant d’offrir à des chercheurs, porteurs d’un projet d’excellence, du personnel scientifique et technique, de l’équipement et des moyens de fonctionnement.

The NISM Institute
Research at NISM revolves around a variety of research topics in organic chemistry, physical chemistry, (nano)-materials chemistry, surface science, optics and photonics, solid-state physics, both from a theoretical and experimental point of view.
Researchers' expertise is recognized in the synthesis and functionalization of molecular systems and innovative materials, from 0 to 3 dimensions.

ALTAïS - Penetrating the depths of matter to meet today's challenges
ALTAïS - Penetrating the depths of matter to meet today's challenges
Founded some 50 years ago, the Laboratoire d'Analyse par Réactions Nucléaires (LARN) in the Department of Physics at the University of Namur is home to a 2MV tandem particle gas pedal named ALTAÏS (Accélérateur Linéaire Tandetron pour l'Analyse et l'Implantation des Solides), in operation since 1999.

This article was produced for the "Eureka" section of Omalius magazine #36, March 2025.
Capable of generating ion beams consisting of any stable element with energies of up to 16 Mega electron-Volt (MeV), the particle gas pedal enables the analysis (IBA) and modification (IBMM) of thin films of many materials. Stimulated by the critical need for new functional materials, the development of these techniques has accelerated in the 21st century. They are essential in many areas of fundamental research, and are also used in applied research, through industrial partnerships.
.Tailor-made innovative developments
Tijani Tabarrant's role is essential to ensure the smooth running of this complex equipment. He is responsible for its maintenance to ensure continuity in research. At the same time, he makes a significant contribution to the research by designing and developing various vacuum chambers, which are crucial to our experiments. To carry out these projects, he works closely with the mechanical workshop, whose expertise and resources are indispensable.

Thanks to their support, I can transform my designs into functional prototypes, benefiting from their machining and assembly know-how. This synergy between my work and the mechanical workshop strengthens our ability to innovate to meet the laboratory's scientific challenges, while ensuring safe and efficient operations.
Cutting-edge technologies to meet the challenges of the future
The strength of IBMM (Ion Beam Modification of Materials) is its ability to modify the electronic, optical, mechanical or magnetic properties of various materials in a controlled way. This is known as "functionalizing materials".
IBA (Ion Beam Analysis) is a family of non-invasive, highly versatile analysis techniques for studying the chemical composition of materials. It has played a leading role for decades in nuclear astrophysics, materials science, life sciences and even heritage and archaeological sciences.

Thanks to the gas pedal and a very special system, it is possible, for example, to reproduce and measure the nuclear reactions that occur in stars. These data are essential for nuclear astrophysicists to better understand stellar evolution.
Materials
In microelectronics, ion implantation, essential for doping semiconductors, is a key stage in the manufacture of electronic chips. The IBA makes it possible to analyze the presence of these dopants, as well as that of hydrogen, an element that can influence the lifespan of electronic components.
In nuclear energy, ion beam irradiation makes it possible to simulate the effects of radiative damage on materials used for nuclear fuel cladding or radioactive waste storage. In this way, their long-term durability can be assessed.
.In reactors, hydrogen from hydrolysis can weaken fuel protection claddings. The IBA makes it possible to study these phenomena in order to improve their resistance. In addition, the use of gamma spectroscopy to characterize radioactive waste is essential to meet a major challenge: that of dismantling nuclear power plants.

In the aerospace field, ion beam irradiation is used to test the resistance of space materials to cosmic radiation, improving the design of satellites and spacecraft.
For hydrogen production and storage, the IBA helps design anti-diffusion coatings. Hydrogen is a tiny atom that diffuses easily through materials. Hydrogen storage is a key issue for the energy transition.
In everyday life, telephone screens, windscreens and even windows benefit from surface treatments that modulate their opacity, as well as their anti-scratch, anti-reflective or anti-smudge properties. These effects are achieved through the synthesis and optimization of thin surface layers, in collaboration with the glass industry. The IBA enables the characterization of these thin films, which helps in the development of new functionalities.
.Life sciences
One of ALTAïS's terminal stations is dedicated to studying the response of cells to radiation (protons, helium, carbon).
Thus, researchers can carry out studies on:
- the generation of radioresistant cancer cells and the development of strategies to re-sensitize them,
- the involvement of mitochondria in resistance to radiotherapy;
- the influence of membrane lipid composition on the response to radiotherapy treatment
They are studying the FLASH effect - very high dose rate irradiation - on a worm C. elegans. The FLASH effect not only maintains tumor control but also spares healthy tissue, which is of key importance in tumor treatment.
They are also reprogramming immune system cells with gold nanoparticles and ionizing radiation (X-ray or proton).

In radiobiology, we use particles to irradiate cancer cell cultures to destroy their genetic material and prevent them from proliferating. This is the basis of radiotherapy and proton therapy.
In the 2000s, the researchers contributed to in-vivo studies on the incorporation of fluorine into tooth enamel, which improved our understanding of tooth mineralization processes.
More recently, the gas pedal has also been used to irradiate rotifers before sending them to the ISS international space station, as well as ants in order to analyze and quantify their resistance under extreme conditions.

Geological, archaeological and cultural heritage
At UNamur's Department of Physics, Professor Guy Demortier, was one of the pioneers in the use of IBAs to characterize ancient objects or fossils. These analyses help to determine the manufacturing methods and provenance of the materials used to make historical artefacts, as is the case at the AGLAE laboratory, based in the Louvre museum, which carries out this type of analysis on a daily basis. Analysis of the coloration of natural geological objects (e.g. speleothems) also provides its share of information about the evolution of the climate and environment of a particular geological area.
But they can also be fossils. The study of an Anchiornis Huxleyi, the dinosaur that could be the missing link to the evolution of birds, for example, revealed the presence of sulfur, probably corresponding to the presence of a feather.

With the recent arrival of Professor Julien Colaux, a new impetus has been gained and is part of a broader perspective.

We are currently developing a new line of research in heritage science, reflected in particular by the launch of the interdisciplinary ARC-Phoenix project in October 2024. This project brings together researchers in physics, archaeology and history who are working to renew our understanding of medieval parchments and ancient coins. Artificial intelligence will be harnessed to analyze the data generated.
The ALTAïS gas pedal is part of the state-of-the-art equipment of the SIAM (Synthesis, Irradiation and Analysis of Materials) technology platform.
Researchers from the NISM Institutes, NARILIS and ILEE use it daily to push back the boundaries of the unknown. The Department also hosts practical work activities by physics and biology students.
Building on their long experience in functional (nano)materials, microelectronics, photovoltaics, batteries, life sciences and heritage sciences, the multidisciplinary teams of researchers are key players in the understanding of matter in the fundamental sense, physical interactions on the atomic scale and the development of new technologies applied to today's global challenges.
Research topics in the Physics Department
La Département de physique se décline en 4 thématiques de recherche porteuses et originales :
- La Physique du vivant
- Les matériaux : synthèse, simulations et analyses
- L’optique et la photonique
- La didactique de la physique
This article is taken from the "Eureka" section of Omalius magazine #36 (March 2025).


Women in science: portraits of women in astronomy
Women in science: portraits of women in astronomy
On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science proclaimed on February 11 by the United Nations General Assembly, and as part of the European alliance European Space University for Earth and Humanity (UNIVERSEH) focusing on the theme of space, discover the testimonies of four women scientists from UNamur working on astronomical themes.

An international day dedicated to Women and Girls in Science
Throughout the world, there has been a significant gender gap in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for years. Although women have made immense progress in terms of their participation in higher education, they remain under-represented in these scientific categories.
To promote the empowerment of women and girls in STEM and raise awareness of the need to include women in science and technology, in 2015 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed February 11 "International Day for Women and Girls in Science".
February 13, 2025 | 5th edition of Women & Girls in science @ UNamur
This annual event aims to promote women's and girls' access to, and full participation in, science and technology. It serves as a reminder of the important role of women in the scientific community and is an excellent opportunity to encourage girls and young women to participate in scientific developments.
Anne-Catherine Heuskin, Professor, Department of Physics
What is your scientific field and what are your studies/research focused on?
I'm a physicist and the subject of my dissertation work was a mix between physics and biology: radiobiology. The idea is to use ionizing radiation to damage cells, particularly cancer cells.

At the Laboratoire d'Analyses par Réactions Nucléaires de l'UNamur (LARN) we have a particle gas pedal which, among other things, produces protons and alpha particles. These particles can be used to irradiate cancer cell cultures to destroy their genetic material and prevent them from proliferating. In clinical practice, X-rays are usually used, as they are easier to produce, less bulky and less costly. But in terms of effectiveness, we hope to achieve better results with charged particles, such as the one used here. This is the basis of proton therapy.
What is your involvement in the European university alliance UNIVERSEH focused on the theme of space?
Ionizing radiation is also encountered in space. Astronauts on the International Space Station are exposed to doses far more intense than those received on the Earth's surface. This radiation has effects on living organisms.
In this context, I'm working on the RISE (Rotifer in Space) project, launched in 2013 with Boris Hespeels and Karin Van Doninck, in partnership with the Unité de Recherche en Biologie Environnementale et évolutive (URBE) at UNamur, ULB and SCK-CEN. This project focuses on rotifers, organisms that are extremely resistant to various conditions: cold, temperature variations, desiccation, a very high radiation dosage... Our aim is to understand how they would react in an environment such as the ISS and whether they develop particular strategies to protect their genomic integrity, which could be used to protect humans in space.
.Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?
First and foremost, whether male or female, scientists are rather special animals: they eat, sleep and think science all the time. But then again, you have to have the opportunity to do so. When you're a woman, in today's society, that can be more complicated, not least because of the many clichés that persist.
I remember one Whitsun Monday when I was emptying my washing machine when I got a message from a colleague "I'm reading a great review!"And there I thought "Great, me, I'm cleaning underpants"We don't all live the same reality. There are those who have a family, a house, with all the mental load that goes with it. And then there are those who don't have children (yet) and have less to think about outside their job. Sometimes I tell myself that I have to continually catch up with people who are much more competitive, but who also have much more time to devote to research.
What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?
I teach all first-year science students and I notice that there are a lot of girls in the life science streams like biology or veterinary medicine, but far fewer in mathematics or physics. It's quite unbalanced. So how can we encourage more women to take up these disciplines? I think it starts very early.
Interest in science is built up from childhood, through education and the image of the world passed on to them by their families. It's not at the age of 18 that you have to ask the question. We need to show them the horizon of possibilities, and make sure they understand that science is neither "for girls" nor "for boys".

Interest in science is built up from childhood, through education and the image of the world transmitted to them by their families.
The right time to awaken this curiosity is when children start to reason, to ask themselves questions: why does the sun always rise in the same place? What happens to an ice cube when it melts? Why does a cold glass fog up when you blow on it? That's when you can accompany them, explain things to them and encourage them to look for answers. We need to give children a taste for explaining and questioning the world.
What message would you like to pass on to a woman who might be hesitant to go into science?
I think the message is valid for all students, whether boys or girls: why do you want to do this or that study? What's your motivation? If it's because your parents advised you to, that's not a good reason. If it's because you're strong in a subject so you're going to study it, that might not be a good justification either. What counts above all is desire. The desire to understand, to discover, to question the world around us.
Justine Bodart, Doctoral student in the Mathematics Department.
What is your scientific field and what are your studies/research focused on?
I work with Professor Anne-Sophie Libert at the naXys Institute on the study of the stability of extra-solar systems and celestial dynamics. I'm also on the student council of the UNIVERSEH alliance as a PhD student representative.


Women in science are transforming the world through their curiosity, perseverance and intelligence.
Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?
I think being a woman can influence a scientific career because of the stereotypes that still exist, but it should reinforce our desire to change mentalities and inspire other women.
What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?
We should give greater visibility to the contributions of women in the scientific world, encourage their input and value their often underestimated historical role. I also think it's important to combat gender bias and create a more inclusive working environment.
Eve-Aline Dubois, researcher, Department of Science, Philosophy and Society
What is your scientific field and what do your studies/research focus on?
I work in the history and philosophy of science. I am particularly interested in the historical and philosophical developments of cosmology. After studying the competing theory to that of the Big Bang and its history in the twentieth century, I am now working on the emergence of the conception of an infinite universe.

Do you think that the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?
I think that all facets of my identity influence and will influence my career: my gender, my age, my nationality, etc., whether in the way I approach my career or the way I'm viewed by my colleagues.
I think that all facets of my identity influence and will influence my career. Whether it's in the way I approach my career or the way my colleagues look at me.Women in science are not a novelty or a rarity, but they are forgotten and erased names.
What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?
All career projects should be encouraged and supported, regardless of gender. Everyone cites Marie Curie as an example, but that's just the tree that hides the forest. Let's talk about Verra Rubin, Margaret Burbidge, Henrietta Leavitt and all their colleagues. Women in science are not a novelty or a rarity, but they are forgotten and erased names.
What message would you like to pass on to a woman who might be hesitating to go into astronomy?
Why are you hesitating? This career is gripping, exciting, testing, overwhelming and rewarding. You have to be motivated and ready to give it your all. Your gender doesn't affect your skills, so if you're tempted, GO FOR IT!
An inspiring message to share?
I like to share Fred Hoyle's quote: "You must understand that, cosmically speaking, the room you are now sitting in is made of the wrong stuff. You, yourself, are odd. You are a rarity, a cosmic collector's piece." To study astronomy, or cosmology, is to confront immensity and sometimes wonder where we fit in. I find it quite comforting to remember that our uniqueness makes us a little treasure.
Emelyne Berger, physical sciences student and member of the "Kap to UNIVERSEH" project kot-à-projet
What is your scientific field and what do you study?
I study physics... but not only! The training offered at bachelor level provides us with a solid, general foundation that will enable us to choose a more specialized master's degree. We develop a range of knowledge from chemistry to programming via the human sciences, not forgetting mathematics, which is the indispensable support for the development of theories.

We are also led to practice experimentation and discover scientific research.
In 2024 I joined, with a small group of students, the UNIVERSEH alliance as a member of the Local Student Club of Namur which is also registered as a new kot-à-projet on the university campus. We were able to take part in the organization of the General Meeting last November as part of an activity aimed at European students. I also took part in the Spring School organized in 2024 by UNamur on the site of the Euro Space Center and am preparing for a trip to Sweden in early March as part of the Arctic Winter School.
Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?
I've always been encouraged to do what I liked, so societal ideas categorizing fields as "masculine" or "feminine" didn't really influence my choice of study. Lack of support and self-confidence can be a hindrance when entering a world that doesn't seem to be our own. Admittedly, you may have to battle with some people, but you can make your mark, like anyone else, as a woman.

These days, female figures who make their mark and who have made their mark on science are increasingly recognized, which is a good thing and gives the future generation of scientists a diversity to be able to identify with.
What do you think would facilitate and encourage a woman to study science and, ultimately, a career in science?
You only need to look at the history of science to understand that every human being is capable of great things if they are allowed to. Nowadays, female figures who have left their mark on science are increasingly recognized, which is a good thing and gives the future generation of scientists a diversity to identify with. They, like them, have paved the way for us to have the freedom to choose what we want to do with our lives.
I find it unfortunate that it still takes days like these to emphasize the fact that we are all equal. I just think that everyone should be pushed to pursue what they're drawn to, and valued according to their abilities.
What message would you like to give to a woman who might be hesitant about taking up astronomy studies?
When you find your path, you have to follow it. I'd tell her not to hesitate, and that if it turns out in the end that the path doesn't suit her, this is in no way a sign of inferiority or inability.
An inspiring message to share?
The message I'd like to share is a short phrase that I've been trying to keep in mind ever since it was passed on to me: Don't try, just do it.
Carine Michiels, Vice-Rector, Research
As part of the 60th anniversary of the European Federation of Biochemical Societies (FEBS), explore the captivating stories of the scientific journeys of 35 women scientists. Among them discover the story of Carine Michiels, Vice-Rector for Research and Libraries.

"Research has always fascinated me. I studied biology with the aim of studying plant biotechnology, but ended up in a human cell biology laboratory. I've never regretted that choice. Over 40 years later, I'm still fascinated by the complexity of cellular behavior, and in particular by the plasticity of cancer cells. Teaching scientific methodology to students and mentoring young researchers is something I particularly enjoy. "
Gender and diversity at UNamur
La prise en compte de la dimension de genre est une priorité à l’Université de Namur pour garantir à toutes et tous les mêmes chances de réussite. L’université met l’accent sur la promotion de l’accès des femmes aux sciences et technologies (STEM) et encourage activement leur participation dans les développements scientifiques.
UNIVERSEH | Opportunities in the space sector
UNamur is a member of the European alliance European Space University for Earth and Humanity (UNIVERSEH), which focuses on the theme of space. This is a real recognition of UNamur's expertise in the field of space, and a gateway to new international collaborations in both teaching and research, around a field that is driving employment and socio-economic development.
.Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.


Towards highly energy-efficient smart windows?
Towards highly energy-efficient smart windows?
Researchers at ULiège and UNamur are developing a new electrochromic material: MoWOx.

- This research, still at the experimental stage, is based on a new formulation of electrochromic material: MoWOx, a mixed molybdenum-tungsten oxide
- This advance makes it possible to envisage "dual-band" functionality, i.e. selective and independent modulation of incoming light and heat flows
- The results have been published in the journals Advanced Optical Materials and ACS Applied Optical Materials
Scientists from the University of Liège (ULiège) and the University of Namur (UNamur) have developed an innovative electrochromic material capable of independently regulating light and heat in buildings. This breakthrough, based on a mixed molybdenum-tungsten oxide (MoWOx), paves the way for even more efficient and energy-saving smart windows.
Electrochromic windows are smart glazings capable of modulating their coloration, or more generally their state of transparency or opacity, when an external electric current is applied to it. This property makes it possible to control the intensity of solar radiation entering a building, without the need for blinds or curtains. This type of window is already manufactured industrially and used technologically in some buildings, but current products do not allow separate control of visible light (VIS) and near-infrared radiation (NIR), respectively linked to incident brightness and heat.
Researchers at ULiège and UNamur, thanks to support from the Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique (FNRS), have thus developed a new formulation of electrochromic material, entitled MoWOx, based on a "dual-band" functionality enabling selective and independent modulation of incoming light and heat fluxes.
Through this new formulation, the scientific teams have demonstrated the occurrence of an innovative optical mode, known as "warm", for the first time for this type of oxide. In this mode, the glass remains transparent to infrared radiation, allowing heat to pass through, while only partially filtering out visible light. This feature is particularly interesting for cold climates and winter periods, where maximizing solar heat gain while reducing solar glare can significantly reduce building energy consumption, particularly in terms of heating and artificial lighting.
.A plasmonic nanomaterial for advanced optical filtration
This "dual-band" functionality is based on the incorporation of nanostructured plasmonic compounds into the smart glass. A plasmonic material is one whose free electrons can oscillate collectively under the effect of light. It can then selectively absorb, reflect or scatter light, depending on its composition and structure. And it is precisely in the application of these plasmonic properties of MoWOx to the case of smart glazing that this innovation lies.
On this basis, the composition and morphology of plasmonic nanostructures directly influence the optical selectivity of filtering, enabling glazing to be tailored more precisely to users' needs.
.A promising application for the buildings of the future
Future intelligent glazing incorporating these new components could ultimately revolutionize energy management in buildings. In a context where the energy transition remains a top priority, these innovative windows will help to achieve carbon neutrality targets and build near-zero energy buildings.
Florian Gillissen, researcher at the University of Liège and first author of the paper published in Advanced Optical Materials:"Thanks to this technology, we can adjust the transmission of light and heat through windows in real time, which represents a giant step forward for the energy optimization of buildings."
Professor Michaël Lobet, FNRS Qualified Researcher and first author of the paper published in ACS Applied Optical Materials: "Theoretical and numerical modeling was carried out at UNamur in Professor Luc Henrard's team, while material synthesis and characterization was carried out under the direction of Professor Rudi Cloots and Dr. Anthony Maho from the University of Liège. It is these synergies between theoretical modeling and fabrication that have enabled the characterization of these MoWOx materials."
Scientific references
Florian Gillissen, Michaël Lobet, Jennifer Dewalque, Pierre Colson, Gilles Spronck, Rachel Gouttebaron, Mathieu Duttine, Brandon Faceira, Aline Rougier, Luc Henrard, Rudi Cloots, Anthony Maho, Mixed Molybdenum–Tungsten Oxide as Dual-Band, VIS–NIR Selective Electrochromic Material, Advanced Optical Materials
https://doi.org/10.1002/adom.202401995
Michaël Lobet, Florian Gillissen, Nicolas De Moor, Jennifer Dewalque, Pierre Colson, Rudi Cloots, Anthony Maho, Luc Henrard, Plasmonic Properties of Doped Metal Oxides Investigated through the Kubelka-Munk Formalism, ACS Applied Optical Materials
https://doi.org/10.1021/acsaom.4c00432
Cette étude a été menée dans le cadre du projet PLASMON_EC, financé par le FNRS, en collaboration entre le laboratoire GREEnMat de l’Université de Liège et l’Institut de la matière structurée (NISM) de l’Université de Namur, en connexion étroite avec des chercheurs de l’Institut de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Bordeaux (ICMCB).


FNRS 2024 calls: Focus on the NISM Institute
FNRS 2024 calls: Focus on the NISM Institute
Several researchers at the Namur Institute of Structured Matter (NISM) have recently been awarded funding from the F.R.S - FNRS following calls whose results were published in December 2024. The NISM Institute federates the research activities of the chemistry and physics departments of the University of Namur.

Luca Fusaro: "Crystallization of complex phases in confined space
The aim of this FNRS-funded research project (PDR) is to deepen knowledge of the complex crystalline phases of simple salts. The project aims to strengthen international research activities, which began in 2016 and led to the publication of the first results in Nature in 2021. Read the article online...
In this study, the researchers had isolated four different crystalline phases from a salt of Fampridine, an organic compound used to treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Two crystalline phases showed remarkable complexity, belonging to the special class of Frank and Kasper (FK) phases.

FK phases have been known since 1959 as a large family of metal alloys, but the study demonstrated that simple pharmaceutical molecules can crystallize with similar complexity, something not previously known.
With this new project, the researchers aim to go one step further, using mainly solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques on powders and single crystals. This study will be carried out in collaboration with other researchers at the NISM Institute (Nikolay Tumanov, Carmela Aprile and Johan Wouters), as well as collaborators working in other countries, such as Riccardo Montis (University of Urbino, Italy) and Simon Coles (Director of the National Crystallography Service (NCS), University of Southampton, UK).
Stéphane Vincent (with UCLouvain): "NPN cofactor synthesis and roles".
The research project (PDR) "NPN cofactor synthesis and roles" is at the interface between fundamental biochemistry and enzymology. It is based on the recent discovery, by a team at UCLouvain, of a new cofactor, named NPN, with a highly original structure. It is a dinucleotide bearing a nickel complex. It is involved in important enzymatic reactions, but little is known about its reactivity, biosynthesis and mechanism of action. Moreover, it is present in 20% of bacterial genomes and 50% of Archaea (archaeobacteria) genomes, but only a tiny fraction of the enzymes employing it have been characterized.
The research project is based on the complementary expertise of Benoit Desguin (UCLouvain, biochemistry) and Stéphane Vincent (bio-organic chemistry). The main aim of the project is to understand the role and mechanism of this cofactor through biochemical, structural and kinetic studies. Analogues of the NPN cofactor will be synthesized by the UNamur team: they will be designed to elucidate the mode of interaction and reaction of the NPN cofactor with the enzymes employing it.
Johan Wouters (with UCLouvain): "Crystallization-based deracémisation in the era of green chemistry".
This research project (PDR) is a co-promotion of Professors Tom Leyssens (UCLouvain) and Johan Wouters (UNamur). It aims to bring the process of uprooting by crystallization into the era of "green chemistry".
Uprooting is a term used in chemistry to describe the process of separating a racemic mixture into its two enantiomers, i.e. the chiral (left and right) forms of a molecule. In the pharmaceutical industry, 50% of marketed drug compounds contain a chiral center, which is essential to their functioning. When one enantiomer has the desired pharmacological effect, the other may be inactive or have undesirable effects. For this reason, new drugs are often marketed as enantiopure compounds (i.e. free of their impure "chiral twin").
The most common way of obtaining chiral drugs still involves the formation of a racemic mixture. This can then be produced by chemical or physical separation techniques, with a yield loss of 50%. If the compound in question is "racemizable", the unwanted enantiomer can technically be converted back into a racemic mixture, resulting in a theoretical yield of 100%. Over the past decade, various crystallization-based uprooting methodologies have been developed. However, all these methods require the use of large quantities of solvent, as they are crystallization processes.
This research aims to take these processes to the next level, not only by making them more efficient (less time-consuming), but also by bringing them into the realm of "green chemistry". To this end, the researchers are proposing mechanochemical variants for conglomerates and racemic compounds.
These processes will be
- Inherently "green", since the unwanted enantiomer is transformed into the desired enantiomer;
- Enabled by mechanochemistry, which eliminates the need for solvent, making them "greener" than solution-based methods.
- The "greenest" possible, thanks to their efficiency (very fast timescale and low energy consumption).
Catherine Michaux, Stéphane Vincent and Guillaume Berionni were awarded equipment financing (EQP).
This funding will enable the acquisition of high-throughput isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) equipment, unique in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation. This is a high-resolution, non-destructive method enabling complete characterization of the chemical details of an interaction in solution.
His acquisition will enable UNamur chemists, but also their collaborators, to analyze any bond, in a vast field of application, extending from biochemistry to supramolecular chemistry.
FRIA doctoral scholarship - Noah Deveaux (PI - Benoît Champagne)
"ONL molecular switches "in all their states": from solutions to functionalized surfaces and solids."
This PhD thesis within the Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory (Department of Chemistry) and the Multiscale Modeling through High-Performance Computing (HPC-MM) Cluster of the NISM Institute aims to develop innovative multiscale computational methodologies to study and optimize multistate and multifunctional molecular switches, key components of logic devices and new generations of data storage technologies.
In addition to variations in linear optical responses, it is advantageous to consider changes in nonlinear optical responses (NLOs), which enable high-resolution data readout while avoiding their destruction. The main objective is to predict and interpret the ONL responses of these molecular switches in different matter environments, namely in solution, grafted onto surfaces and in the solid state.
In addition, particular attention will be paid to modeling defects and orientational disorder within materials to better represent real-world conditions. These predictive methods will be validated experimentally through close collaborations with synthesis and characterization teams.
FNRS, la liberté de chercher
Chaque année, le F.R.S.-FNRS lance des appels pour financer la recherche fondamentale. Il a mis en place une gamme d'outils permettant d’offrir à des chercheurs, porteurs d’un projet d’excellence, du personnel scientifique et technique, de l’équipement et des moyens de fonctionnement.

The NISM Institute
Research at NISM revolves around a variety of research topics in organic chemistry, physical chemistry, (nano)-materials chemistry, surface science, optics and photonics, solid-state physics, both from a theoretical and experimental point of view.
Researchers' expertise is recognized in the synthesis and functionalization of molecular systems and innovative materials, from 0 to 3 dimensions.

ALTAïS - Penetrating the depths of matter to meet today's challenges
ALTAïS - Penetrating the depths of matter to meet today's challenges
Founded some 50 years ago, the Laboratoire d'Analyse par Réactions Nucléaires (LARN) in the Department of Physics at the University of Namur is home to a 2MV tandem particle gas pedal named ALTAÏS (Accélérateur Linéaire Tandetron pour l'Analyse et l'Implantation des Solides), in operation since 1999.

This article was produced for the "Eureka" section of Omalius magazine #36, March 2025.
Capable of generating ion beams consisting of any stable element with energies of up to 16 Mega electron-Volt (MeV), the particle gas pedal enables the analysis (IBA) and modification (IBMM) of thin films of many materials. Stimulated by the critical need for new functional materials, the development of these techniques has accelerated in the 21st century. They are essential in many areas of fundamental research, and are also used in applied research, through industrial partnerships.
.Tailor-made innovative developments
Tijani Tabarrant's role is essential to ensure the smooth running of this complex equipment. He is responsible for its maintenance to ensure continuity in research. At the same time, he makes a significant contribution to the research by designing and developing various vacuum chambers, which are crucial to our experiments. To carry out these projects, he works closely with the mechanical workshop, whose expertise and resources are indispensable.

Thanks to their support, I can transform my designs into functional prototypes, benefiting from their machining and assembly know-how. This synergy between my work and the mechanical workshop strengthens our ability to innovate to meet the laboratory's scientific challenges, while ensuring safe and efficient operations.
Cutting-edge technologies to meet the challenges of the future
The strength of IBMM (Ion Beam Modification of Materials) is its ability to modify the electronic, optical, mechanical or magnetic properties of various materials in a controlled way. This is known as "functionalizing materials".
IBA (Ion Beam Analysis) is a family of non-invasive, highly versatile analysis techniques for studying the chemical composition of materials. It has played a leading role for decades in nuclear astrophysics, materials science, life sciences and even heritage and archaeological sciences.

Thanks to the gas pedal and a very special system, it is possible, for example, to reproduce and measure the nuclear reactions that occur in stars. These data are essential for nuclear astrophysicists to better understand stellar evolution.
Materials
In microelectronics, ion implantation, essential for doping semiconductors, is a key stage in the manufacture of electronic chips. The IBA makes it possible to analyze the presence of these dopants, as well as that of hydrogen, an element that can influence the lifespan of electronic components.
In nuclear energy, ion beam irradiation makes it possible to simulate the effects of radiative damage on materials used for nuclear fuel cladding or radioactive waste storage. In this way, their long-term durability can be assessed.
.In reactors, hydrogen from hydrolysis can weaken fuel protection claddings. The IBA makes it possible to study these phenomena in order to improve their resistance. In addition, the use of gamma spectroscopy to characterize radioactive waste is essential to meet a major challenge: that of dismantling nuclear power plants.

In the aerospace field, ion beam irradiation is used to test the resistance of space materials to cosmic radiation, improving the design of satellites and spacecraft.
For hydrogen production and storage, the IBA helps design anti-diffusion coatings. Hydrogen is a tiny atom that diffuses easily through materials. Hydrogen storage is a key issue for the energy transition.
In everyday life, telephone screens, windscreens and even windows benefit from surface treatments that modulate their opacity, as well as their anti-scratch, anti-reflective or anti-smudge properties. These effects are achieved through the synthesis and optimization of thin surface layers, in collaboration with the glass industry. The IBA enables the characterization of these thin films, which helps in the development of new functionalities.
.Life sciences
One of ALTAïS's terminal stations is dedicated to studying the response of cells to radiation (protons, helium, carbon).
Thus, researchers can carry out studies on:
- the generation of radioresistant cancer cells and the development of strategies to re-sensitize them,
- the involvement of mitochondria in resistance to radiotherapy;
- the influence of membrane lipid composition on the response to radiotherapy treatment
They are studying the FLASH effect - very high dose rate irradiation - on a worm C. elegans. The FLASH effect not only maintains tumor control but also spares healthy tissue, which is of key importance in tumor treatment.
They are also reprogramming immune system cells with gold nanoparticles and ionizing radiation (X-ray or proton).

In radiobiology, we use particles to irradiate cancer cell cultures to destroy their genetic material and prevent them from proliferating. This is the basis of radiotherapy and proton therapy.
In the 2000s, the researchers contributed to in-vivo studies on the incorporation of fluorine into tooth enamel, which improved our understanding of tooth mineralization processes.
More recently, the gas pedal has also been used to irradiate rotifers before sending them to the ISS international space station, as well as ants in order to analyze and quantify their resistance under extreme conditions.

Geological, archaeological and cultural heritage
At UNamur's Department of Physics, Professor Guy Demortier, was one of the pioneers in the use of IBAs to characterize ancient objects or fossils. These analyses help to determine the manufacturing methods and provenance of the materials used to make historical artefacts, as is the case at the AGLAE laboratory, based in the Louvre museum, which carries out this type of analysis on a daily basis. Analysis of the coloration of natural geological objects (e.g. speleothems) also provides its share of information about the evolution of the climate and environment of a particular geological area.
But they can also be fossils. The study of an Anchiornis Huxleyi, the dinosaur that could be the missing link to the evolution of birds, for example, revealed the presence of sulfur, probably corresponding to the presence of a feather.

With the recent arrival of Professor Julien Colaux, a new impetus has been gained and is part of a broader perspective.

We are currently developing a new line of research in heritage science, reflected in particular by the launch of the interdisciplinary ARC-Phoenix project in October 2024. This project brings together researchers in physics, archaeology and history who are working to renew our understanding of medieval parchments and ancient coins. Artificial intelligence will be harnessed to analyze the data generated.
The ALTAïS gas pedal is part of the state-of-the-art equipment of the SIAM (Synthesis, Irradiation and Analysis of Materials) technology platform.
Researchers from the NISM Institutes, NARILIS and ILEE use it daily to push back the boundaries of the unknown. The Department also hosts practical work activities by physics and biology students.
Building on their long experience in functional (nano)materials, microelectronics, photovoltaics, batteries, life sciences and heritage sciences, the multidisciplinary teams of researchers are key players in the understanding of matter in the fundamental sense, physical interactions on the atomic scale and the development of new technologies applied to today's global challenges.
Research topics in the Physics Department
La Département de physique se décline en 4 thématiques de recherche porteuses et originales :
- La Physique du vivant
- Les matériaux : synthèse, simulations et analyses
- L’optique et la photonique
- La didactique de la physique
This article is taken from the "Eureka" section of Omalius magazine #36 (March 2025).


Women in science: portraits of women in astronomy
Women in science: portraits of women in astronomy
On the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science proclaimed on February 11 by the United Nations General Assembly, and as part of the European alliance European Space University for Earth and Humanity (UNIVERSEH) focusing on the theme of space, discover the testimonies of four women scientists from UNamur working on astronomical themes.

An international day dedicated to Women and Girls in Science
Throughout the world, there has been a significant gender gap in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for years. Although women have made immense progress in terms of their participation in higher education, they remain under-represented in these scientific categories.
To promote the empowerment of women and girls in STEM and raise awareness of the need to include women in science and technology, in 2015 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed February 11 "International Day for Women and Girls in Science".
February 13, 2025 | 5th edition of Women & Girls in science @ UNamur
This annual event aims to promote women's and girls' access to, and full participation in, science and technology. It serves as a reminder of the important role of women in the scientific community and is an excellent opportunity to encourage girls and young women to participate in scientific developments.
Anne-Catherine Heuskin, Professor, Department of Physics
What is your scientific field and what are your studies/research focused on?
I'm a physicist and the subject of my dissertation work was a mix between physics and biology: radiobiology. The idea is to use ionizing radiation to damage cells, particularly cancer cells.

At the Laboratoire d'Analyses par Réactions Nucléaires de l'UNamur (LARN) we have a particle gas pedal which, among other things, produces protons and alpha particles. These particles can be used to irradiate cancer cell cultures to destroy their genetic material and prevent them from proliferating. In clinical practice, X-rays are usually used, as they are easier to produce, less bulky and less costly. But in terms of effectiveness, we hope to achieve better results with charged particles, such as the one used here. This is the basis of proton therapy.
What is your involvement in the European university alliance UNIVERSEH focused on the theme of space?
Ionizing radiation is also encountered in space. Astronauts on the International Space Station are exposed to doses far more intense than those received on the Earth's surface. This radiation has effects on living organisms.
In this context, I'm working on the RISE (Rotifer in Space) project, launched in 2013 with Boris Hespeels and Karin Van Doninck, in partnership with the Unité de Recherche en Biologie Environnementale et évolutive (URBE) at UNamur, ULB and SCK-CEN. This project focuses on rotifers, organisms that are extremely resistant to various conditions: cold, temperature variations, desiccation, a very high radiation dosage... Our aim is to understand how they would react in an environment such as the ISS and whether they develop particular strategies to protect their genomic integrity, which could be used to protect humans in space.
.Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?
First and foremost, whether male or female, scientists are rather special animals: they eat, sleep and think science all the time. But then again, you have to have the opportunity to do so. When you're a woman, in today's society, that can be more complicated, not least because of the many clichés that persist.
I remember one Whitsun Monday when I was emptying my washing machine when I got a message from a colleague "I'm reading a great review!"And there I thought "Great, me, I'm cleaning underpants"We don't all live the same reality. There are those who have a family, a house, with all the mental load that goes with it. And then there are those who don't have children (yet) and have less to think about outside their job. Sometimes I tell myself that I have to continually catch up with people who are much more competitive, but who also have much more time to devote to research.
What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?
I teach all first-year science students and I notice that there are a lot of girls in the life science streams like biology or veterinary medicine, but far fewer in mathematics or physics. It's quite unbalanced. So how can we encourage more women to take up these disciplines? I think it starts very early.
Interest in science is built up from childhood, through education and the image of the world passed on to them by their families. It's not at the age of 18 that you have to ask the question. We need to show them the horizon of possibilities, and make sure they understand that science is neither "for girls" nor "for boys".

Interest in science is built up from childhood, through education and the image of the world transmitted to them by their families.
The right time to awaken this curiosity is when children start to reason, to ask themselves questions: why does the sun always rise in the same place? What happens to an ice cube when it melts? Why does a cold glass fog up when you blow on it? That's when you can accompany them, explain things to them and encourage them to look for answers. We need to give children a taste for explaining and questioning the world.
What message would you like to pass on to a woman who might be hesitant to go into science?
I think the message is valid for all students, whether boys or girls: why do you want to do this or that study? What's your motivation? If it's because your parents advised you to, that's not a good reason. If it's because you're strong in a subject so you're going to study it, that might not be a good justification either. What counts above all is desire. The desire to understand, to discover, to question the world around us.
Justine Bodart, Doctoral student in the Mathematics Department.
What is your scientific field and what are your studies/research focused on?
I work with Professor Anne-Sophie Libert at the naXys Institute on the study of the stability of extra-solar systems and celestial dynamics. I'm also on the student council of the UNIVERSEH alliance as a PhD student representative.


Women in science are transforming the world through their curiosity, perseverance and intelligence.
Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?
I think being a woman can influence a scientific career because of the stereotypes that still exist, but it should reinforce our desire to change mentalities and inspire other women.
What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?
We should give greater visibility to the contributions of women in the scientific world, encourage their input and value their often underestimated historical role. I also think it's important to combat gender bias and create a more inclusive working environment.
Eve-Aline Dubois, researcher, Department of Science, Philosophy and Society
What is your scientific field and what do your studies/research focus on?
I work in the history and philosophy of science. I am particularly interested in the historical and philosophical developments of cosmology. After studying the competing theory to that of the Big Bang and its history in the twentieth century, I am now working on the emergence of the conception of an infinite universe.

Do you think that the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?
I think that all facets of my identity influence and will influence my career: my gender, my age, my nationality, etc., whether in the way I approach my career or the way I'm viewed by my colleagues.
I think that all facets of my identity influence and will influence my career. Whether it's in the way I approach my career or the way my colleagues look at me.Women in science are not a novelty or a rarity, but they are forgotten and erased names.
What do you think could facilitate and encourage the careers of women scientists?
All career projects should be encouraged and supported, regardless of gender. Everyone cites Marie Curie as an example, but that's just the tree that hides the forest. Let's talk about Verra Rubin, Margaret Burbidge, Henrietta Leavitt and all their colleagues. Women in science are not a novelty or a rarity, but they are forgotten and erased names.
What message would you like to pass on to a woman who might be hesitating to go into astronomy?
Why are you hesitating? This career is gripping, exciting, testing, overwhelming and rewarding. You have to be motivated and ready to give it your all. Your gender doesn't affect your skills, so if you're tempted, GO FOR IT!
An inspiring message to share?
I like to share Fred Hoyle's quote: "You must understand that, cosmically speaking, the room you are now sitting in is made of the wrong stuff. You, yourself, are odd. You are a rarity, a cosmic collector's piece." To study astronomy, or cosmology, is to confront immensity and sometimes wonder where we fit in. I find it quite comforting to remember that our uniqueness makes us a little treasure.
Emelyne Berger, physical sciences student and member of the "Kap to UNIVERSEH" project kot-à-projet
What is your scientific field and what do you study?
I study physics... but not only! The training offered at bachelor level provides us with a solid, general foundation that will enable us to choose a more specialized master's degree. We develop a range of knowledge from chemistry to programming via the human sciences, not forgetting mathematics, which is the indispensable support for the development of theories.

We are also led to practice experimentation and discover scientific research.
In 2024 I joined, with a small group of students, the UNIVERSEH alliance as a member of the Local Student Club of Namur which is also registered as a new kot-à-projet on the university campus. We were able to take part in the organization of the General Meeting last November as part of an activity aimed at European students. I also took part in the Spring School organized in 2024 by UNamur on the site of the Euro Space Center and am preparing for a trip to Sweden in early March as part of the Arctic Winter School.
Do you think the fact that you're a woman influences your career as a scientist?
I've always been encouraged to do what I liked, so societal ideas categorizing fields as "masculine" or "feminine" didn't really influence my choice of study. Lack of support and self-confidence can be a hindrance when entering a world that doesn't seem to be our own. Admittedly, you may have to battle with some people, but you can make your mark, like anyone else, as a woman.

These days, female figures who make their mark and who have made their mark on science are increasingly recognized, which is a good thing and gives the future generation of scientists a diversity to be able to identify with.
What do you think would facilitate and encourage a woman to study science and, ultimately, a career in science?
You only need to look at the history of science to understand that every human being is capable of great things if they are allowed to. Nowadays, female figures who have left their mark on science are increasingly recognized, which is a good thing and gives the future generation of scientists a diversity to identify with. They, like them, have paved the way for us to have the freedom to choose what we want to do with our lives.
I find it unfortunate that it still takes days like these to emphasize the fact that we are all equal. I just think that everyone should be pushed to pursue what they're drawn to, and valued according to their abilities.
What message would you like to give to a woman who might be hesitant about taking up astronomy studies?
When you find your path, you have to follow it. I'd tell her not to hesitate, and that if it turns out in the end that the path doesn't suit her, this is in no way a sign of inferiority or inability.
An inspiring message to share?
The message I'd like to share is a short phrase that I've been trying to keep in mind ever since it was passed on to me: Don't try, just do it.
Carine Michiels, Vice-Rector, Research
As part of the 60th anniversary of the European Federation of Biochemical Societies (FEBS), explore the captivating stories of the scientific journeys of 35 women scientists. Among them discover the story of Carine Michiels, Vice-Rector for Research and Libraries.

"Research has always fascinated me. I studied biology with the aim of studying plant biotechnology, but ended up in a human cell biology laboratory. I've never regretted that choice. Over 40 years later, I'm still fascinated by the complexity of cellular behavior, and in particular by the plasticity of cancer cells. Teaching scientific methodology to students and mentoring young researchers is something I particularly enjoy. "
Gender and diversity at UNamur
La prise en compte de la dimension de genre est une priorité à l’Université de Namur pour garantir à toutes et tous les mêmes chances de réussite. L’université met l’accent sur la promotion de l’accès des femmes aux sciences et technologies (STEM) et encourage activement leur participation dans les développements scientifiques.
UNIVERSEH | Opportunities in the space sector
UNamur is a member of the European alliance European Space University for Earth and Humanity (UNIVERSEH), which focuses on the theme of space. This is a real recognition of UNamur's expertise in the field of space, and a gateway to new international collaborations in both teaching and research, around a field that is driving employment and socio-economic development.
.Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Agenda
1st Global Chinese Materials Conference (GCMC2025)
The First Global Chinese Materials Conference and the Founding Meeting of the Global Chinese Materials Scholars Association will be held at the University of Namur, Belgium. The theme of this conference is "Materials Frontier in the AI Era".

The conference is co-organized by the University of Namur, Belgium and Wuhan University of Technology, China and supported by Foshan Xianhu Laboratory and other organisms.
More info on the GCMC2025 website...