Dr. Fouaz Lekoui , Centre de développement des technologies avancées (CDTA) , Algeria
Dr. Fouaz Lekoui, born on July 23, 1985, in Collo, Algeria, is an accomplished researcher with over 10 years of experience in materials science and thin films deposition. He is currently working at the Center for Development of Advanced Technologies (CDTA) in Algiers, where he leads research on PVD, CVD techniques, and thin-film characterization. With a strong background in mechanical engineering, he has contributed significantly to the advancement of transparent, conductive, and antibacterial materials. His academic career includes teaching at several prestigious universities and supervising numerous Master’s and PhD theses. Dr. Lekoui’s research has led to multiple high-impact publications and collaborative projects, showcasing his expertise in functional thin films and surface characterization.
Publication Profile:
Orcid
Strengths for the Award:
- Extensive Research Experience:
- Fouaz Lekoui has over a decade of research experience in thin film deposition, particularly in PVD and CVD techniques. His deep expertise includes thin film elaboration, characterization, and a strong background in advanced technologies such as annealing and diffusion furnaces. This extensive experience in a highly specialized field is a notable strength for recognition in research excellence.
- High-Impact Contributions to Scientific Literature:
- Lekoui has contributed to a significant number of peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. His recent publications include cutting-edge studies on the structural, optical, and electrical properties of multifunctional thin films, such as ZnO-Ag and ZnO-Mg thin films, which are of great interest for applications in transparent conductive and antibacterial materials.
- Notable works, including his article in Inorganic Chemistry Communications (2024) and Journal of Ovonic Research (2024), showcase his leadership in advanced materials science, especially in the context of nanomaterials and thin film technologies.
- Academic and Professional Leadership:
- As an associate professor with a wide teaching range at various esteemed institutions (Algiers 1 University, Military Materials School), Lekoui has made significant contributions to academia by training the next generation of scientists and engineers.
- He has supervised or co-supervised numerous master’s and PhD theses, further emphasizing his mentoring capabilities in scientific research.
- Leadership in Conferences and Seminars:
- Chairman of the First Seminar on Materials, Processes, and Microfabrication (2024), Lekoui has demonstrated excellent leadership in organizing and advancing scientific dialogues in his field.
- Multidisciplinary Expertise:
- His work spans across several key areas in material science, including semiconductor materials, biophysics, and energy-efficient technologies, making him a highly versatile researcher.
- International Collaboration and Recognition:
- Lekoui’s collaborations extend to researchers and institutions across the globe, indicating the international recognition and impact of his research. His involvement in multiple journal articles with notable contributions shows his ability to work in diverse research teams.
Areas for Improvement:
- Broader Public Engagement and Outreach:
- While Lekoui’s research impact is significant within academic and professional circles, broader outreach, such as public lectures, popular science writing, or media engagement, could help elevate his visibility and the societal impact of his research.
- Diversification of Research Focus:
- Although Lekoui has shown substantial depth in his field of expertise, exploring adjacent fields such as sustainable materials, energy storage, or quantum materials could enhance his research profile and broaden his contributions to modern technological needs.
- Grant and Project Leadership:
- While Lekoui is involved in collaborative research, taking a leading role in high-profile research projects and securing major research grants could further solidify his standing in the international scientific community.
Education:
Dr. Fouaz Lekoui holds a diverse academic background. He completed his Baccalaureate in Exact Sciences in 2003, followed by an Engineer degree in Mechanical Engineering (Energy Option) in 2009, where he acquired knowledge in thermodynamics, propulsion mechanics, and fluid mechanics. In 2012, he obtained his Magister in Mechanical Engineering specializing in materials and surfaces, with a thesis on phosphomagnesian cement. Dr. Lekoui then completed his PhD in Mechanical Engineering in 2019, focusing on functional thin films based on Zn-Ag-Mg-O systems. In 2022, he received his HDR (Habilitation to Direct Research) in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in materials science, cementing his expertise in materials and surfaces.
Experience:
Dr. Lekoui’s professional journey spans both academic and research roles. Since 2013, he has been a researcher at CDTA, contributing to thin-film deposition and advanced surface characterization. He specializes in evaporation, sputtering DC magnetron techniques, and ultra-high vacuum technologies. His internships at Sonatrach and Bazoul w. power station further enriched his practical experience. As an associate professor, he taught at Ben Youcef Benkhedda University, Algiers 1 University, and the Military Materials School, imparting knowledge in materials science, physics, optics, and nanotechnology. He has supervised 19 Master’s theses and co-supervised multiple PhD projects, demonstrating his commitment to academic mentorship.
Research Focus:
Dr. Lekoui’s research primarily revolves around the elaboration and characterization of functional thin films, with a focus on transparent, conductive, and antibacterial materials. His work investigates ZnO-based thin films doped with silver, magnesium, and manganese, exploring their optical, electrical, and structural properties. He has also explored nano-materials, vacuum deposition techniques, and surface treatments such as oxidation and annealing. Dr. Lekoui is passionate about developing innovative materials for applications in optics, photonics, and renewable energy, contributing to various interdisciplinary fields such as nanotechnology, biophysics, and semiconductor technologies.
Publications Top Notes:
- Optical parameters extraction of zinc oxide thin films doped with manganese using an innovative technique based on the dragonfly algorithm and their correlation to the structural properties 🦋📚
- Studying the Effect of Mn Doping on the Electrical and Optical Properties of ZnO/Ag/ZnO Multilayer 🔬⚡
- Ag-Doped ZnO nanostructured thin films for transparent antibacterial surfaces: Effect of Ag content 💧🦠
- Investigation structural heterogeneities in hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon thin films from argon-diluted silane dusty plasma PECVD ⚙️🌐
- Machine learning-based method for predicting C–V-T characteristics and electrical parameters of GaAs/AlGaAs multi-quantum wells Schottky diodes 💻📊
- Structural and optical properties of highly Ag-doped TiO2 thin films prepared by flash thermal evaporation 🔥🖤
- Effect of Ti/TiN Thin Film Geometrical Design on the Response of RTDs 🧪📐
- Electrical Parameters Extraction of Diode Using Whale Optimization Algorithm 🐋🔧
- On the substrate heating effects on structural, mechanical and linear/non-linear optical properties of Ag–Mn co-doped ZnO thin films 🔥🔬
Conclusion:
Fouaz Lekoui’s research portfolio demonstrates a profound commitment to advancing materials science, particularly in the domain of thin films and nanotechnology. His significant contributions to high-impact research, strong academic and professional leadership, and proven mentoring ability underscore his suitability for a Research Excellence Award. The areas for improvement are relatively minor in comparison to his established strengths, and addressing them could further enhance his impact in both scientific and public domains. Thus, based on his accomplishments, he is highly deserving of the recognition in the Research for Excellence in Research category.