Meet Mélanie Mignot-Viel

Mélanie develops analytical strategies using chromatography and mass spectrometry, adapting different separation modes, ionization sources, and mass analyzers to meet the demands of targeted and untargeted screening. She also continues the work she began during her PhD on the synthesis of new stationary phases. “What interests me most is determining the best analytical strategy for each problem,” she says. Complex samples often require several complementary techniques to provide a sufficiently complete picture.

A pivotal career decision came in 2017, when Mélanie was offered a position as an analytical laboratory manager in industry but chose to continue pursuing public research. Supported by her husband and several mentors, she undertook postdoctoral research in Deirdre Cabooter’s laboratory at KU Leuven before becoming an associate professor the following year.

Beyond research and teaching, Mélanie participates in public-engagement activities addressing environmental issues, supports young women in science, and helps introduce children to scientific ideas. Sport has also shaped her approach to research. She began practicing judo at 10, learning values that fostered “a passion for challenges and competitions.” She says those experiences taught her “to try my best, explore my full potential, and persevere to improve.”