Yohan Richardson completed his PhD in Chemistry and Physical Chemistry of Materials at Université Montpellier 2, specializing in catalytic strategies for biomass gasification. He also earned a Master’s degree in Environmental Biosciences, Chemistry and Health from Université de Provence Aix-Marseille 1 and a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Université Montpellier 2. Earlier, he obtained a DUT in Chemistry from the University Institute of Technology, Montpellier. His academic training established strong expertise in environmental chemistry, catalytic materials, renewable energy systems, and process intensification.
Professional Experience
Yohan Richardson has extensive academic and research experience in renewable energy engineering, environmental chemistry, and STEM education. Since 2012, he has served as Assistant Professor of Chemistry at International Institute for Water and Environmental Engineering (2iE). He has also held leadership positions as Head of the Department of STEM Education and educational manager for engineering programs accredited by the CTI. His previous roles include postdoctoral research on biomass gasification and syngas production, along with research engineering experience at the CNRS and the European Membrane Institute.
Awards and Honors
Yohan Richardson has received several academic distinctions recognizing his expertise in theoretical, physical, and analytical chemistry. He obtained the qualification of Maître de Conférences from the Conseil National des Universités (CNU) for the period 2014–2018 and renewed for 2024–2028. In 2023, he was awarded the title of Maître-assistant in Chemistry by the Conseil Africain et Malgache pour l’Enseignement Supérieur (CAMES). His scientific leadership includes responsibilities in international research collaborations, renewable energy research coordination, and engineering education innovation.
Research Interest
Yohan Richardson’s research primarily focuses on thermochemical and catalytic conversion of biomass for sustainable energy and fuel production. His work explores biomass gasification, syngas purification, biochar engineering, biodiesel catalysis, activated carbon materials, and wastewater remediation technologies. He is also involved in the development of geo-sourced and bio-sourced materials for environmental applications. His interdisciplinary research integrates eco-design, process intensification, and innovation methodologies to address energy access, waste valorization, and environmental sustainability challenges in developing regions.
Conclusion
Yohan Richardson has established a strong academic and research profile in renewable energy, biomass valorization, catalytic conversion, and environmental sustainability. His contributions to biomass gasification, syngas purification, biochar production, and wastewater treatment have gained international scientific recognition through high-impact publications and collaborative research projects. Alongside his research excellence, his leadership roles in STEM education, engineering curriculum development, and international academic partnerships demonstrate significant commitment to scientific innovation, sustainable development, and capacity building in Africa and beyond.
Publication Top Noted
- A short overview on purification and conditioning of syngas produced by biomass gasification: catalytic strategies, process intensification and new concepts
Authors: Yohan Richardson, Jacques Blin, Alain Julbe
Year: 2012
Citation: Progress in Energy and Combustion Science
- Catalytic investigation on in-situ generated Ni metal nanoparticles for tar conversion during wood pyrolysis
Authors: Yohan Richardson, J. Motuzas, A. Julbe, G. Volle, Jacques Blin
Year: 2013
Citation: The Journal of Physical Chemistry C
- In situ generation of Ni metal nanoparticles as catalyst for H2-rich syngas production from biomass gasification
Authors: Yohan Richardson, Jacques Blin, G. Volle, J. Motuzas, Alain Julbe
Year: 2010
Citation: Applied Catalysis A: General | DOI: 10.1016/j.apcata.2010.04.047
- High efficiency activated carbon from African biomass residues for the removal of chromium (VI) from wastewater
Authors: M. Gueye, Yohan Richardson, F. T Kafack, Jacques Blin
Year: 2014
Citation: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering
- Improving the kinetics of the CO2 gasification of char through the catalyst/biomass integration concept
Authors: Yohan Richardson, S. Tanoh, Alain Julbe, Jacques Blin
Year: 2015
Citation: Fuel