This issue is dedicated to the Alsace region and its research capability. It was entirely designed and achieved by our local representatives, with the fullest support of the regional CNRS Administrator. All the contributions and interviews are from resident scientists and key players in the region.
It commemorates the 70th anniversary of the CNRS and the 50th anniversary of the local CNRS research campus at
Cronenbourg, Strasbourg.
The origins of research in Alsace stretch back further than the 20th century. Louis Pasteur taught chemistry at Strasbourg
from 1849 to 1854 and chemistry was ever a strong feature both academically and in the industrial field . Classical and
middle eastern studies date from the 1880’s.
International exposure is the key feature of Alsace, reflecting both its geographical position and the legacy of history. Its international dimension is enhanced by the presence of the European Parliament and European Court of Human Rights
but the intensity of its scientific exchanges with the rest of the world testifies to its attractiveness.
This is clearly depicted in the article contributed to this issue by the Kastler Foundation. The Foundation was set up in
1993 by a distinguished Strasbourg chemistry professor, Guy Ourisson, with the aim of facilitating the arrival in France
of visiting scientists. In 2008 close to 6,000 visiting scholars were invited to this country for long term visits. Among
them, 392 came to Alsace. By country of origin, the biggest group (142) is from Europe, but the next biggest is from
Asia (112), namely India (41), China (32) and Japan (22). The vast majority of the visiting scholars work in the natural
and exact sciences. Three quarters of them are post-graduates, the remainder are Ph.D students.
Alsace, a border region, is at the crossroads of languages and cultures. It is a key nodal point in the world network of
scientific exchange and collaboration. Our CNRS Alumni are proud to present the region’s diversity and attractiveness.
We cordially invite all visiting scientists from abroad currently in the region to contact us and to participate in the events which we organize.
Edmond Arthur LISLE
President, CNRS Alumni Association