"Our Researchers Have Talent" – Meeting with Fatima Zahra AHCHOUCH
Fatimazahra Ahchouch: Research Serving Sustainable Agriculture Currently a second-year PhD student at Université Clermont Auvergne, Fatimazahra Ahchouch represents a new generation of committed researchers at the intersection of science, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Originally from Morocco, she is developing 100% bio-based biostimulant solutions aimed at addressing the major challenges of global agriculture.
An Academic Journey Between Morocco and France
After completing her entire university education in Morocco — a bachelor's degree in plant biology followed by a master's degree in food sciences obtained in 2022 — Fatimazahra chose to continue her PhD in France, at the University Clermont Auvergne.
« Pursuing a PhD in France has been enormously enriching, both professionally and personally. It is a true adventure that allows you to adapt to a new environment and a new culture. »
This international experience has allowed her to develop essential research skills: autonomy, adaptability, and teamwork.
A PhD at the Heart of Agricultural and Environmental Challenges
Within the GDEC (Genetics, Diversity, and Ecophysiology of Cereals) laboratory and the Institut Pascal, Fatimazahra is conducting a PhD focusing on evaluating the biostimulant potential of polyglucuronic acids and their derivatives on plant growth and development.
In the context of climate change and the reassessment of chemical input use, her work aims to propose sustainable alternatives:
« We aim to develop natural, 100% bio-based and ecological solutions capable of improving crop growth and resistance to environmental stress while reducing the use of agrochemical products. »
Her project is also part of a circular economy approach, valorizing an extremely abundant plant biomass: cellulose.
Promising Results for a Greener Agriculture
The initial results of her work demonstrate the potential of cellulose as an innovative resource for the agricultural sector.
« It is possible to use cellulose to create natural biostimulant solutions while following a green and sustainable approach. »
A breakthrough that could help transform agricultural practices on a global scale.
Research and Entrepreneurship: The StarThèse Experience
Winner of the Expl’AURA bootcamp and the StarThèse competition, Fatimazahra had the opportunity to confront her research with the world of entrepreneurship.
During these programs, she learned to communicate her topic in simple terms, structure an innovative project, and pitch her ideas to a diverse audience.
« These experiences allowed me to step out of the purely academic framework and meet numerous actors from the entrepreneurial and socio-economic world. »
The innovation of her project notably relies on valorizing a material released in massive quantities in nature — nearly 200 billion tons of cellulose — to create a biodegradable and eco-responsible solution.
Essential Scientific Guidance
Throughout her journey, Fatimazahra benefits from the rigorous and supportive guidance of her PhD supervisors, Jane Roche and Cédric Delattre.
« Their guidance and advice allowed me to progress efficiently in my work. I am very fortunate to have them by my side. »
She also highlights the key role of Polytech Clermont, its laboratories, and equipment, which allowed her to work under optimal conditions.
And after?
Currently, Fatimazahra is continuing to validate high-potential biostimulant formulations at the laboratory scale. In parallel, she is supported by Pépite and Clermont Auvergne Innovation for her entrepreneurial project, including filing a patent.
A Message to Future Researchers
To those who hesitate to embark on this journey, she has a clear message:
« Dare, do not be afraid to participate, and seize every opportunity. Combining research and entrepreneurship requires time and a lot of energy, but it is a wonderful experience. Everything can start with a simple idea, and its impact can be immense in the future. »
Also to Discover:
The video interview of Fatimazahra Ahchouch is available on our YouTube channel.