PhD Defence Océane Duluins on the Protein Transition

Scientific narratives for the protein transition:
will systemic change be possible?

This dissertation focuses on the concept of the protein transition, understood as both an analytical and normative framework aimed at rethinking the role of livestock and animal proteins in our food systems. The thesis pursued three overarching goals: (1) to unpack the meanings and functions of the protein transition in relation to food system sustainability in scientific literature; (2) to examine the disciplinary contributions and perspectives to the protein transition, looking at how these disciplinary perspectives are integrated into a holistic vision of PT; and (3) to assess the options and solutions being advanced under the concept of the protein transition, as well as their coherence with the underlying systemic challenges at stake. By addressing these goals, the research seeks to move beyond fragmented disciplinary debates and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the protein transition as both a scientific and a socio-political phenomenon. The integrated analysis of narratives, disciplinary approaches, and structural dynamics, contributes to a multidimensional perspective that highlights the interplay between scientific knowledge, institutional structures, and power relations in shaping pathways toward sustainable food system transformation.

Presentation in English, followed by a friendly gathering over drinks – open to everyone!

Meet in the Sud 01 lecture hall on Place Croix du Sud in Louvain-la-Neuve.

If you want to stay for the reception, please fill in the following form: Reception form 

If you want to follow online, here is the Teams Link to be used : Public Thesis Defence – Duluins Océane

membERs OF THE jury

Promotor :
Prof. Philippe V. BARET : UCLouvain

Other members of the jury:

Prof. Frédéric GASPART : UCLouvain ; President

Prof. Goedele VAN DEN BROEK : UCLouvain ; Secretary

Prof. Jereon CANDEL : Wageningen University (The Netherlands)

Prof. Erik MATHIJS : KULeuven (Belgium)

Prof. Tim G. Benton : Chatham House (UK)