Prof. Najma Laaroussi | Energy Systems | Women Researcher Award
Professor at University Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco
Najma Laaroussi π²π¦ is a dynamic professor at the Higher School of Technology of SalΓ©, University Mohammed V of Rabat, specializing in sustainable energy systems and smart building technologies. With a global academic journey starting from INSA Lyon π to the University of Paris-Est Marne-la-VallΓ©e ποΈ, she blends technical expertise with innovative research vision. Her core mission revolves around improving building energy performance ποΈ and optimizing solar thermal and photovoltaic applications βοΈπ. Najma has contributed significantly to the international scientific community with impactful publications π, conference talks π€, and peer-review roles in top-tier journals. She also takes pride in mentoring emerging scholars π§βππ©βπ, guiding master’s and Ph.D. candidates in clean energy domains. A blend of scientific rigor and real-world insight, she is helping shape the green future of Morocco and beyond π. Najma Laaroussi is a thought leader merging research excellence with environmental responsibility π±π‘.
Professional ProfileΒ
π Education
Najma Laaroussi’s academic roots are grounded in excellence π. She earned her Master’s degree in Thermal and Energy from the prestigious INSA Lyon, France π«π· β a hub of scientific innovation. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Energy Systems and Thermal Processes from the University of Paris-Est Marne-la-VallΓ©e, awarded in 2008 π. This academic foundation empowered her with a robust understanding of advanced thermodynamics, sustainable energy, and environmental control π₯β»οΈ. Her education journey uniquely equipped her to address global energy challenges with scientific precision and interdisciplinary creativity. With this strong academic pedigree, Najma seamlessly bridges theory and practice, applying her scholarly insights to solve real-world energy efficiency issues in Morocco and beyond π. Her dedication to academic growth and energy research continues to inspire students and professionals alike πβ¨.
π§ͺ Professional Experience
Najma Laaroussi’s professional path is a testament to her applied expertise and global experience π. From 2009 to 2011, she worked as a Research & Development Engineer at Socotec Industries in France π’, where she tackled real-world industrial energy systems and optimization processes. Her industry experience added practical depth to her academic insights, setting the stage for her future endeavors. Since 2011, she has been a key member of the Materials, Energy, and Acoustics Team (MEAT) at the University Mohammed V of Rabat π²π¦. As a Professor (PES) in the Department of Urban and Environmental Engineering, she has taken on a dual role of educator and researcher π©βπ«π¬. Her role includes supervising graduate theses, conducting energy audits, and participating in applied sustainability projects. Najma’s unique blend of academic and industrial experience allows her to design solutions that are both innovative and practical βοΈπΌ.
π¬ Research Interests
Najma Laaroussi’s research passion lies in creating energy-resilient and environmentally responsible systems ππ. Her work focuses on energy efficiency in buildings, aiming to reduce energy consumption through smart design and thermal optimization π π¨. She explores advanced thermal solar systems and photovoltaic technologies to harness clean energy in urban environments βοΈποΈ. Najma’s work intersects material science, energy engineering, and environmental acoustics, making her a multidisciplinary force in Moroccan and international research ππ¬. Through computational modeling, field testing, and policy-informing analysis, she aims to make cities more sustainable and energy-smart ππ. She also contributes significantly to scientific literature and reviews top journals in the energy and environment domains πποΈ. As a research mentor, she empowers the next generation of engineers and researchers to develop holistic and scalable green solutions π±π§βπ¬.
π Awards and Honors
While official awards are not explicitly listed, Najma Laaroussi’s career is marked by prestige, recognition, and academic influence π₯. Her invitation to review for several international journals in energy, building, and environmental science is a strong marker of her authority in the field πβ . Her continuous engagement in conferences, workshops, and editorial boards speaks volumes of her scientific impact ππ€. Supervising numerous master’s and doctoral candidates, she has become a trusted leader in research mentorship and curriculum development π§βππ. Her enduring commitment to research excellence, cross-border collaborations, and contributions to renewable energy discourse make her a silent award-winner in the academic and professional community π π«. With over a decade of experience post-PhD, her achievements are embedded not just in accolades, but in the tangible difference she makes to science, sustainability, and student success ππ.
π Publications Top NoteΒ
1. Measurement of thermal properties of brick materials based on clay mixtures
Authors: N. Laaroussi, G. Lauriat, M. Garoum, A. Cherki, Y. Jannot
Year: 2014
Citations: 81
Source: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 70, pp. 351β361
Summary:
This study focuses on evaluating the thermal conductivity and diffusivity of clay-based bricks using a mixture of natural components. Experimental setups were designed to measure thermal responses under varying conditions, helping determine the suitability of local materials for energy-efficient construction in warm climates.
2. Energy efficiency and thermal properties of the composite material clay-straw
Authors: K. El Azhary, Y. Chihab, M. Mansour, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum
Year: 2017
Citations: 74
Source: Energy Procedia, Vol. 141, pp. 160β164
Summary:
This paper investigates a composite material made of clay and straw, highlighting its insulation capacity, energy savings potential, and eco-friendly attributes. The results confirm its promise in sustainable building systems, especially in rural or semi-urban settings.
3. Acoustical and thermal characterization of sustainable materials derived from vegetable, agricultural, and animal fibers
Authors: S. Bousshine, M. Ouakarrouch, A. Bybi, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum, A. Tilioua
Year: 2022
Citations: 65
Source: Applied Acoustics, Vol. 187, 108520
Summary:
The study evaluates natural fibers (plant, agricultural, and animal origins) as bio-based materials for construction. Key parameters like sound absorption and thermal conductivity were tested, proving their potential in green insulation panels.
4. Thermal performances and environmental analysis of a new composite building material based on gypsum plaster and chicken feathers waste
Authors: M. Ouakarrouch, K. El Azhary, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum, F. Kifani-Sahban
Year: 2020
Citations: 65
Source: Thermal Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 19, 100642
Summary:
Introduces an innovative gypsum-chicken feather composite, exploring its thermal behavior, mechanical stability, and environmental footprint. The approach promotes recycling of poultry waste into effective construction materials.
5. Thermal properties of a sample prepared using mixtures of clay bricks
Authors: N. Laaroussi, A. Cherki, M. Garoum, A. Khabbazi, A. Feiz
Year: 2013
Citations: 62
Source: Energy Procedia, Vol. 42, pp. 337β346
Summary:
Analyzes different clay mixtures used in traditional brick fabrication. The paper emphasizes thermal diffusivity, conductivity, and their impact on building energy consumption, aiming at improving local housing standards.
6. Acoustic and thermal performances assessment of sustainable insulation panels made from cardboard waste and natural fibers
Authors: M. Ouakarrouch, S. Bousshine, A. Bybi, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum
Year: 2022
Citations: 45
Source: Applied Acoustics, Vol. 199, 109007
Summary:
Explores using recycled cardboard and natural fibers to manufacture eco-insulation panels. The panels were tested for thermal resistance and sound absorption, proving effective for indoor comfort and waste valorization.
7. Thermal inertia and energy efficiency enhancements of hollow clay bricks integrated with phase change materials
Authors: Y. Chihab, R. Bouferra, M. Garoum, M. Essaleh, N. Laaroussi
Year: 2022
Citations: 45
Source: Journal of Building Engineering, Vol. 53, 104569
Summary:
Introduces phase change materials (PCMs) into hollow clay bricks to improve thermal inertia and energy regulation. Simulation and experimentation show reduced thermal fluctuation, ideal for passive energy buildings.
8. Thermal study of clay bricks reinforced by three ecological materials in south of Morocco
Authors: M. Lamrani, M. Mansour, N. Laaroussi, M. Khalfaoui
Year: 2019
Citations: 45
Source: Energy Procedia, Vol. 156, pp. 273β277
Summary:
Focuses on enhancing clay bricks by reinforcing them with natural additives found in southern Morocco. The results show improved thermal efficiency, promoting locally-sourced sustainable construction techniques.
9. An example of comparison between ISO Norm calculations and full CFD simulations of thermal performances of hollow bricks
Authors: N. Laaroussi, G. Lauriat, S. Raefat, M. Garoum
Year: 2017
Citations: 38
Source: Journal of Building Engineering, Vol. 11, pp. 69β81
Summary:
Compares ISO standard thermal calculations with CFD simulations for hollow bricks. The study finds that simulation-based methods offer more accurate thermal performance predictions, useful for building design refinement.
10. Energy performance and thermal properties of three types of unfired clay bricks
Authors: K. El Azhary, S. Raefat, N. Laaroussi, M. Garoum
Year: 2018
Citations: 33
Source: Energy Procedia, Vol. 147, pp. 495β502
Summary:
Evaluates unfired (sun-dried) clay bricks made using three different compositions. The paper analyzes thermal conductivity, density, and environmental impact, supporting low-energy, low-emission construction alternatives.
π Conclusion
Najma Laaroussi embodies the spirit of academic rigor, environmental stewardship, and global collaboration ππ‘. From France to Morocco, from thermal dynamics to renewable systems, her journey reflects unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and societal impact π¬π±. As a professor, mentor, and researcher, she continues to shape the field of energy efficiency with resilience and innovation π οΈβ‘. Her work not only advances Moroccoβs energy transition but also contributes to international knowledge-sharing and green development. Najma’s story is one of cross-disciplinary expertise, real-world relevance, and academic generosity ππ. With a strong foothold in academia and a vision for sustainable futures, she stands out as a beacon in the energy research community. Her legacy will echo through the buildings she optimizes, the systems she improves, and the minds she mentors ππ©βπ«. A true academic leader for a cleaner tomorrow π.