Laboratory of Soil Mechanics ‐ EPFL

Prof. Lyesse Laloui elected President of ISSMGE

Chair Professor and Director of the Laboratory of Soil Mechanics to lead the world’s pre-eminent geotechnical engineering body for the 2026–2030 term

New York plans to recover heat from underground

LMS research on Lausanne’s M3 metro line could be adapted for the New York subway, an initiative led by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, as reported by Science et Vie.

“I am a different person now”

A demanding four-year apprenticeship at one of Europe’s leading research institutions has become a story of technical skill, growing confidence and well-earned recognition for our Physics trainee, Julien Birbaum.

“Here at the Laloui Group, our experimental and modelling expertise allows us to explore the mechanical properties of the ground beneath our feet. Our aim is to ensure a safe and sustainable future for us all by addressing the challenges of climate change, global energy demand, sustainable urban design and construction and safe and environmentally friendly waste disposal systems, through the development of unique analytical tools and innovative technologies.”

-Professor Lyesse Laloui, Director

Our research activities

Achieving sustainable and resilient communities and the environment has become one of the global challenges of the 21st century. It requires energy security for a growing population, a sustainable food supply, and resilience to natural hazards and extreme events. Securing the future for the next generations relies on our capability to mitigate global warming, access to renewable and efficient energy resources.

Energy Geostructures and Thermal Piles

Nuclear Waste Storage

Bio-improved Soils

CO2 Storage

Behaviour of Shales

Landslide Analysis

Explore Research Internships & Student Projects

Looking to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge geotechnical engineering? The LMS Laboratory offers unique opportunities for students to contribute to real-world research in sustainability, energy, and advanced geomaterials.

Discover available projects and how to apply.