The Academic Prize 2025

Muriel PRIAULT

IBGC - CNRS, Bordeaux (FRANCE)





Natural protein instability as ageing biomarker
The CNRS team is exploring an innovative approach towards measuring the impact of the exposome on skin ageing. Specialists in spontaneous degradation of proteins due to chemical reactions that alter their structure and function, the researchers wish to demonstrate that this phenomenon could serve as a precise indicator in assessing the environmental effects on skin. Identifying specific proteins like new ageing biomarkers could open the way to improved prevention and appropriate cosmetic solutions.

The Academic Prize 2024

Matej HLADIS

Université de Côte d'Azur (FRANCE)





Deciphering the Code of Scent: a Bio-Inspired AI for Accurate Odor Perception Prediction:
This innovative project uses knowledge of odor coding, the biological mechanism by which our brains interpret smells, to develop a bio-inspired AI capable of accurately predicting odor perception. Grounded in fundamental biology, our pipeline can incorporate genetic information, enabling the creation of personalized scents. By opening the way for the modeling of complex mixtures, we aspire to create a tool that empowers its users to craft innovative fragrances, while also providing alternatives to raw materials to reduce their ecological impact.

The Academic Prize 2023

Ophélie PIERRE

Université de Bretagne Occidentale (FRANCE)





Model Of reiNnervaTed Human Skin 
The project involves the final validation of a model of skin reconstructed by sensory neurones. These are obtained from human samples, thereby doing away with using animals. An irritated or sensitive skin can be simulated using this unique model. This research work will be used to develop new, more appropriate ingredients and new care products, especially for atopic skins.

The Academic Prize 2022

Sami HALILA

CNRS Researcher in Glychochemistry - Centre de Recherches sur les Macromolécules Végétales – CNRS, Grenoble (France)


Carbogel A Simple and Eco-Friendly Carbohydrate-Based Gelling Agent for Oily Phase 
The project relates on the supramolecular gelation of organic liquids, such as organic solvents or oils, with monosaccharide derivatives that self-assemble into hierarchical 3D network of nanostructures. The sweet gelators are made from an eco-friendly and efficient method (reaction in water). Gelation could be performed by sonication, or by heating/cooling, or by dilution. The gel is considered as a stimuli-responsive and controlled delivery matrix for cosmetic agents. Finally, our project contributes to "green" and sustainable cosmetics by limiting our environmental and social impact.