Young Astronomer Representative
Dr. Youssef Moulane is a Research Scientist in astronomy and astrophysics at the University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) in Morocco. He holds a Ph.D. in Astronomy and Space Science, awarded jointly by Cadi Ayyad University in Morocco and the University of Liège in Belgium in 2021. His research focuses on the physical and chemical properties of small bodies in the solar system, particularly comets and asteroids.
Dr. Moulane has international research experience, having served as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Auburn University in the United States and as a Visiting Researcher at the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in Chile between 2019 to 2021. His areas of expertise include planetary and cometary science, comets properties and composition, photometry and spectroscopy, telescopes and instrumentation, as well as cosmic microwave background (CMB) studies and cosmology.
Within the African Astronomical Society (AfAS), Dr. Moulane plays a significant leadership role. He currently serves as Chair of the Membership Committee, and is also an active member of both the Early Career Committee and the Executive Committee. Through these roles, he contributes to strengthening the African astronomy community by fostering engagement, supporting emerging scientists, and enhancing institutional collaboration across the continent.
Dr. Moulane is also committed to science education and public outreach, regularly participating in initiatives that promote astronomy to broader audiences. He believes strongly in the power of science to inspire, educate, and unite, and is passionate about advancing astronomy in Africa through capacity building, international cooperation, and community engagement.