The team
Cédric Bertrand
University Professor,
Scientific Leader for the Green Economy
An agronomy engineer, Ph.D. in Phytochemistry, and professor of organic chemistry at UPVD, he is also the head of the Chemistry Department and the scientific leader for the Green Economy at PI²M. Within the CRIOBE, his research activities focus on developing metabolomic approaches for the study of natural substances and environmental chemistry.
He is a board member of the Francophone Network for Metabolomics and Fluxomics and President of the Francophone PO²N Group. He is also the Scientific Director of AkiNaO and the lead of a LivingLab project: AgroLab Biomed.
Emilie BOISSIN
Postdoctoral researcher at CRIOBE
Emilie Boissin has been a postdoctoral researcher at CRIOBE since 2013. Through her work, she aims to understand the mechanisms driving the distribution of current marine biodiversity. She focuses particularly on the effect of life history traits (such as reproductive mode and larval type) and paleoclimatic changes (like sea level fluctuations) on diversification and the genetic structure of populations and communities. Her methodology combines DNA barcoding, phylogenetics, phylogeography, and population genetics, along with comparative multispecies approaches and scenario testing. Emilie coordinates the scientific program of Tara Pacific.
Leila LE BOTERFF
Project Management and Funding Manager
With a Master’s degree in Political Science, Leila has worked in various fields within both developing and established organizations. These diverse experiences share a common goal: to make an impact on territories and/or populations by fighting inequalities. At PI²M, Leila uses her broad versatility to strengthen partnerships, develop new scientific research projects, and ensure the efficient management of the laboratory, a unifying and innovative project that contributes to the development of Mayotte.
Oumaynou Daroueche
Ph.D. Candidate
Having completed two Master’s degrees (Microbiology and Nutraceuticals), Oumaynou has gained experience in the techniques of isolation and characterization of active molecules, methods for their preservation, as well as ways to enhance their value.
Currently, she is advancing her professional career through a Ph.D. thesis on the Mahoran cosmetopoeia at PER with UPVD.
Yazid SOUF
Ph.D. in chemistry and a master’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences
Yazid Souf holds a Ph.D. in chemistry and a master’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences. He specializes in the chemistry of natural products and has notably worked on the valorization of conotoxins from cone snail venom, in the context of developing new therapeutic and biotechnological solutions.
As a laboratory manager, he oversees the operation of analytical platform equipment and the development of analytical methods for quality control of finished products. He is also responsible for proposing viable solutions to local producers regarding extraction, purification, and valorization methods.
Thomas Vignaud
Operations Director
Although Thomas pursued his studies in research, obtaining a Ph.D. in Genetics and Evolution, he has also traveled the world and worked in the private sector, project development, and economic activities.
Drawing from his experience, deep understanding of various issues (scientific, economic, socio-cultural, ecological…), and an extensive international network, Thomas is responsible for implementing the vision and projects proposed by PI²M, as well as project design and innovation for the territory.
Jacky ali saïd
Laboratory Technician
Graduated with a BUT (Bachelor’s in Technology) in Chemistry, Analysis, and Quality Control in 2024, Jacky gained valuable experience through an internship in our laboratory. He continued his training in an apprenticeship in mainland France, where he further honed his professional skills. Within our structure, Jacky provides versatile technical support on various projects, contributing to the innovation and excellence of our activities. His passion for chemistry and commitment to quality make him a valuable asset to our team.
Julien bonneaud costa
Biotechnology Engineer
A diver and Master’s graduate in Integrated Coastal Management and Fisheries Valorization from the University of Corsica, Julien joined PI²M as a Research Engineer in Biological Techniques. Arriving in Mayotte three years ago for his final internship, he has already contributed to the development of the submerged innovation platform project, particularly by writing his dissertation on the valorization of Mayotte’s algal resources. His role at PI²M is to develop the blue economy in the territory.
THIBAULT TAm-hui
ph.d. candidate
Thibault earned a Master’s degree in Chemistry and specialized in Life Sciences. As part of his Chemical Valorization program, he began working on the inclusion of several local plants in the pharmacopoeia.
Today, Thibault is back at PI²M to continue his work on the inclusion of several local plants in the pharmacopoeia. His thesis represents a new opportunity to promote the territory of Mayotte and highlight the local biodiversity.
Mazna RACHIDI
research engineer in organic chemistry
Mazna Rachidi, a research engineer in organic chemistry, has solid experience in both fundamental research and product development, particularly in the field of biotransformation of plant-based proteins. She joined the PI²M team to support the development of the “green” component of the PIOM program. Her work focuses on the valorization of co-products from local sectors, particularly Aromatic and Medicinal Plants (PAPAM), the development of innovative eco-extraction processes for high value-added biomolecules, and the exploration of their applications.
Her approach combines scientific rigor, creativity, and a strong commitment to sustainable and circular agriculture in Mayotte. Driven by a desire to raise the profile of the island beyond its borders, Mazna brings her expertise to a rich territory, supporting it with passion in its transition toward more resilient and rewarding value chains.