Two FLD PhD students recognised for their research work

The Faculty of Law of the Université Catholique de Lille was honoured during the end-of-year academic ceremony held on Tuesday 24 June 2025, with the Research Commission’s thesis prize-giving. Two of its PhD students were among the three prize-winners, awarded for both the scientific excellence and the societal impact of their research.

Research anchored in contemporary challenges

Presented by Patrick Scauflaire, President-Rector of the University, and Nicolas Vaillant, Vice-Rector for Research, the thesis prizes celebrated work that combined academic rigour with a significant contribution to the University’s missions. Supported by the Fondation de la Catho, these awards reflect the interdisciplinary vitality of research conducted within the University’s institutions.

Anastasia Conroux, a PhD student in private law and criminal sciences and a member of the Childhood and Family Chair, received second prize for her thesis entitled Legal approaches to controlling relationships within the family, a sensitive and complex subject analysed through the lens of personal rights and the protection of the most vulnerable.

Florian Watier, also a PhD student in private law and criminal sciences and affiliated with the same Chair, was awarded third prize for his thesis exploring Child/Parent relationships in the context of detention.

First prize went to Florian Martini (Junia) for his research in phytopathology, focusing on the development of a natural biofungicide.

All three performed brilliantly during the ‘My thesis in 180 seconds‘ oral presentation, praised for their clarity and depth.

A ceremony to conclude an anniversary year

The event provided an opportunity to look back at the highlights of an academic year marked by the 150th anniversary of the Université Catholique de Lille. A retrospective film retraced the milestones of this exceptional year: student initiatives in France and abroad, unifying events, the opening of new living and working spaces and meaningful pedagogical projects.

The inauguration of Le Vaisseau, the Faculty of Law’s new building in Issy-les-Moulineaux, opened last October, was also spotlighted as an illustration of our academic and territorial development.

Tributes and transmission

The ceremony also paid tribute to Thérèse Lebrun, a leading figure in the University’s history who is now retiring. She is a Former President-Rector and President-Rector Delegate for Health and Social Affairs. A retrospective of her career, punctuated by a warm speech from her daughter Audrey, paid tribute to her deep commitment, her foresight and her humanity.

A tribute was also paid to Père Thierry Magnin, stepping down as President-Rector for the Humanities. He received the University’s gold medal before passing the baton to Frère Franck Dubois, who was introduced by Monseigneur Laurent Le Boulc’h.

Towards new horizons

This moment of gathering, both institutional and festive, enabled the Université Catholique de Lille to close a landmark year while reaffirming its commitments to the future. The university community now looks forward to upcoming highlights, particularly the ECOPOSS Festival in autumn 2025, dedicated to desirable futures and societal innovation.