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Dr. Chaker El Kalamouni is a chemist and virologist specializing in the discovery of antiviral compounds derived from natural products. His research focuses on the identification and characterization of bioactive molecules targeting emerging infectious diseases, particularly arboviruses such as Zika virus (ZIKV), Dengue virus (DENV), Usutu virus (USUV) and SARS-CoV-2.

After obtaining his PhD, he was recruited as an Associate Professor at the University of La Réunion in 2011 . His multidisciplinary expertise lies at the interface of chemistry, virology, and pharmacognosy, where he explores the antiviral potential of plant-derived molecules and their mechanisms of action.

Dr. El Kalamouni leads several research projects, including CAZIKANO, which focuses on the prevention and control of Zika virus outbreaks in West Africa, TretZerbaj, a multidisciplinary initiative aiming to valorize traditional medicinal plants with antiviral potential, and CYCLOPE, which investigates the role of Comptonellins in viral replication and host-pathogen interactions. He is also responsible for the Master’s program in Infectiology at the Faculty of Health, where he supervises PhD students and contributes to advanced training in antiviral research.

His scientific expertise extends to the characterization of MOA of antiviral agents, as well as the establishment of preclinical models to assess the efficacy of plant-derived compounds. He actively collaborates with research institutions and universities worldwide.

Dr. El Kalamouni has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and patents on natural antiviral compounds. In addition to his research, he serves as an Academic Editor for Antiviral Research and PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, contributing to the dissemination of high-impact research in phytochemistry, virology and infectious diseases.