2025 DFI-EFFC Geotechnics Reimagined
John Mitchell Lecture
2025 John Mitchell Lecturer: Lyesse Laloui
Revolutionizing Foundations: Advances in Thermo-Active Piling Engineering
Lyesse Laloui
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology at Lausanne
Lyesse Laloui is a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology at Lausanne (EPFL) where he directs the Laboratory for Soil Mechanics. He is a world-renowned expert in geomechanics and geo-energy. Inspired by the intricate systems of the natural world, his groundbreaking research into the physical mechanisms of geomaterials has unlocked innovative technologies crucial for addressing climate change, resource optimization and the widespread adoption of renewable energy. Prof. Laloui’s international recognition is further solidified by two doctorate honoris causa in recognition of his sustainability leadership.
About the John Mitchell Lecture
The John Mitchell Lecture was established at the 1991 4th International Conference on Piling and Deep Foundations in Stresa Italy. The Lecture was named in Honor of John Michael Mitchell, one of the earliest organizers of the DFI International Conferences and a pioneering supporter of DFI’s role as a leader in the global industry. John was killed on September 14, 1990, while observing piling works at a site in Central London.
Previous John Mitchell lecturers include:
- Maurice Bottiau
- Prof. Michele Jamiolkowski
- Bengt H. Fellenius
- Thomas O’Rourke
- David Sherwood
- Harry G. Poulos
- William Van Impe
- Michele Jamiolkowski & Carlo Viggiani
- Heinz Brandl
