Younes Hamed, a Tunisian professor specializing in groundwater, hydrogeology, and environmental risks, has achieved a significant milestone by being ranked first globally in the 2026 Top1000 Scholar ranking for geology and geophysics. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his outstanding contributions to the field. Hamed's work focuses on hydrogeology, geochemistry, and the interactions between water resources and the environment at the Faculty of Sciences in Gafsa, Tunisia.
Hamed's research is deeply rooted in the Gafsa region of southwestern Tunisia, where he has conducted extensive studies on aquifer systems, groundwater circulation, and contamination phenomena. His work employs geochemical and isotopic techniques to understand the origin, movement, and composition of groundwater. A notable publication in the Journal of African Earth Sciences in 2014 examined groundwater flow and contamination in the Gafsa mining basin, highlighting the importance of integrating geological analysis with environmental concerns.
Hamed's research extends beyond locating groundwater resources to investigating their quality, vulnerability, and the risks associated with human activities. A study published in the Journal of Geochemical Exploration in April 2025 analyzed the sources of radioactive and nitrate contamination in groundwater in southern Tunisia. The study used 33 samples from the Gafsa basin to identify potential contamination sources, demonstrating the value of scientific methods in characterizing pressures on water resources.
Hamed's scientific production has a significant international presence, with publications addressing the impacts of climate change on surface and groundwater in North Africa and the functioning of transboundary aquifer systems. According to his ScienceDirect profile, he has authored 134 documents, received 3,513 citations, and has an h-index of 37. These indicators reflect the international recognition of his work in the scientific community.
The 2026 Top1000 Scholar ranking also recognizes two other Tunisian researchers: Hakim Gabtni, from the Water Research and Technology Center, ranked 38th globally, and Mohamed Soussi, from the Faculty of Sciences in Tunis, ranked 39th. This strong presence of Tunisian researchers in the top ranks highlights the country's contributions to Earth sciences.
Hamed's achievement is not only a personal recognition but also a reflection of the importance of his field in Tunisia. Understanding aquifers, monitoring their quality, and studying environmental pressures are crucial for sustainable agriculture, territorial management, and water resource management. His work serves as a reminder that understanding subsurface resources is essential for informing decisions about future water management.
The significance of Hamed's research extends beyond academic circles, with practical implications for water management and policy-making in Tunisia. As the country continues to face challenges related to water scarcity and environmental sustainability, Hamed's work provides valuable insights into the complexities of groundwater resources and the need for informed decision-making.
Key points
- Younes Hamed's research focuses on hydrogeology, geochemistry, and environmental risks, with a strong emphasis on groundwater resources in Tunisia.
- He was ranked first globally in the 2026 Top1000 Scholar ranking for geology and geophysics.
- His work has significant implications for water management and policy-making in Tunisia, highlighting the importance of understanding and protecting groundwater resources.
