Head of Research & Development and Consultant
From mountain peaks to the depths of the earth: the unconventional journey of Mariane Peter-Borie
From a young age, Mariane had the soul of an explorer and a scientist. Whether she was in the family kitchen, whipping up cakes worthy of the finest pastry chefs, or dreaming of the adventures of Jacques Cousteau, her curiosity knew no bounds.
Observation and experimentation shaped her daily life: at just 10 years old, she asked her nurse parents to draw her blood so she could examine it under a microscope on colored slides. But her curiosity didn’t stop at the lab door! Extreme outdoor activities also brought her immense joy—mountaineering, rock climbing with her uncle and cousin, scuba diving… “I’ve always been drawn to challenges, wide-open spaces, and the adrenaline of extreme sports. These experiences taught me perseverance, adaptability, and the value of pushing my own limits.”
Today, these same qualities continue to guide her professional journey: curiosity, keen observation, and boldness remain powerful drivers in her daily life. “And while I’m neither a pastry chef nor an oceanographer, those childhood passions shaped my career path, my desire to innovate, and my love of exploration.”
Academic journey: from oceanography to applied geology
Driven by her passion for the mysteries of the ocean and her fascination with Cousteau’s expeditions, she enrolled at the University of Bordeaux, renowned worldwide for its oceanography program. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Earth and Universe Sciences, then pursued studies in applied geology under the mentorship of Mr. Clément, then director of the Applied Geosciences Laboratory. His advice and expertise were pivotal. Mariane went on to specialize with a Master’s degree (DEA) at Centrale Paris and later completed her PhD. This shift was a true revelation: “I realized I had an idealized view of Cousteau’s documentaries! I discovered a profession where research and real-world application come together.”
The people who shaped her path
Her parents, both nurses: Dedicated heart and soul to caring for others, they instilled in her a sense of commitment… and confirmed what she did not want to do. “Their example made one thing clear: I need a career that combines passion and freedom.”
Bernard Clément, professor in Bordeaux: “He saw potential in me that I didn’t even suspect. He guided me toward a fascinating field that I continue to explore in all its depth.”
Joëlle Riss, PhD advisor: Beyond scientific rigor, she taught her how to learn, question herself, and think ahead. “With her, I also discovered the importance of feminism and inclusion in academia and the workplace. A personality who influenced far more than just my thesis.”
Omar Friedleifsson, geothermal expert: “Thanks to him, I expanded my horizons internationally and deepened my expertise in geothermal energy. A meeting that accelerated my career and allowed me to contribute to global impact projects.”
Milestones: A committed trajectory
2002: The scientific turn
At the end of her bachelor’s, Mariane made a decisive choice: to leave oceanography for applied geology, aiming to write a thesis on landslides. This reorientation was a defining moment in her life.
2009: Joining BRGM and Geothermal Energy
Hired by BRGM after her PhD, Mariane specialized in geothermal energy – a key field for the energy transition.
2010: Motherhood and advocacy
The birth of her first daughter brought a triple role: mother, engineer, and researcher. “Already aware of inequalities, I became actively involved in organizations like Femmes & Sciences, promoting women’s place in science.”
2015: DEEPEGS Project, a managerial turning point
Leading a major component of the international DEEPEGS project, Mariane managed multidisciplinary, multicultural teams. This experience boosted her confidence and ability to lead large-scale projects.
2020: International expansion
Invited as a researcher by ISOR in Iceland, she broadened her geographical horizons and realized that professional mobility is possible, even with two children. A stimulating revelation that reinforced her choices.
2022: From public sector to industry
Mariane left BRGM to explore the industrial world from a new, international perspective, driven by the desire to take on bold new challenges.
2024: Aligning values
She joined Look Up Geoscience, “a company whose commitment to renewable energy and smart collaboration aligns with my own values.” A new chapter where expertise, innovation, and engagement converge.
Major experiences: between expertise and leadership
- PhD (BRGM/University of Bordeaux): Scientific foundations and immersion in applied research.
- Management of International Projects (BRGM): Leading multidisciplinary teams and coordinating European partnerships.
- Consulting for DREAL and the Ministry of Ecological Transition: Advising on public policy in geothermal energy and natural risk management.
- Co-creation and Leadership of Geothermal Team (CGG/Viridien): Launching and leading an innovation-focused geothermal team within a major private company.
- R&D and Service Manager (LKP): Developing technical and strategic solutions for renewable energy, with a results-driven approach.
Notable achievements: pride and impact
- DEEPEGS (H2020): Managed a key work package on deep geothermal stimulation, advancing European technologies.
- Guide: “Best Practices for Mitigating Induced Seismic Risk”: A reference document commissioned by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, widely distributed in the sector.
- Advocacy for Women in Science: School outreach (elementary to higher education), mentoring, and conference participation to inspire the next generation of scientists.
Passion: the mountain, a school of life
The mountain is more than a hobby—it’s a return to the essential. “I seek solitude and calm there, a different rhythm where every step counts. It’s also a deep connection with nature—feeling the fragility and power of the elements, becoming aware of our place in the vastness. The mountain teaches me humility, patience, and reminds me that the greatest challenges are overcome one step at a time.”