At the first edition of the thesis awards from the Ministry of Agriculture, seven young doctors were distinguished for the quality of their research supporting transformations in the agricultural and food sectors. Among them, four researchers from INRAE received awards.
The research by the INRAE laureates focuses on crucial topics such as reducing pesticide and antibiotic consumption, better understanding exposure to chemical contaminants, and supporting the development of legumes, thereby contributing to agricultural and food transitions.
Among the recipients, Emma Le Merlus received the 'Higher Agricultural Education' prize for her thesis on factors influencing farmers' practices in reducing synthetic pesticide use. Her work, conducted at Paris-Saclay University, highlights the importance of work constraints, economic choices, and collective dynamics.
Marie Marteau-Bazouni was awarded the 'Doctoral Pathway at MAASA' prize for her thesis analyzing the effects of climate change on legumes in Europe. Her research, carried out at Paris-Saclay University, provides key insights for agroecological and food transitions.
Rebecca Hibbard received the 'Higher Agricultural Education' prize for her thesis comparing France and Indonesia on the appropriate use of antibiotics in poultry farming. Her research, conducted at the University of Toulouse, identifies levers for preserving treatment efficacy and promoting responsible antibiotic use.
Thomas Gestellu also received the 'Higher Agricultural Education' prize for his thesis studying chronic dietary exposure to a mixture of chemical contaminants. His research, conducted at Oniris, characterized health risks throughout life and contributed to Anses's work on cadmium.
'This list of winners illustrates the quality of our doctoral students' work and INRAE's commitment to doctoral training,' explained Isabelle Caillard, Director of Higher Education, Sites, and Europe at INRAE. She noted that the institute hosts over 2,600 doctoral students annually and actively supports their training and professional development.
