Noureddine Melikechi is a distinguished Professor of Physics and Dean of the Kennedy College of Sciences. Born in Algeria and now based in the United States, his expertise lies in atomic, molecular, and optical physics. Melikechi's academic contributions are extensive, including authorship of over 150 peer-reviewed scientific articles and 5 book chapters. A key figure in NASA's Mars missions, his work involves analyzing data from laser-induced spectroscopy, using instruments like the ChemCam and SuperCam aboard the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers.