Pierre RABU

Pierre RABU is a Senior Researcher (Research Director, 2nd class) at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), affiliated with the Institut de Physique et Chimie des Matériaux de Strasbourg (IPCMS), a joint unit of CNRS and the University of Strasbourg. Since 2018, he has served as Director of IPCMS, and previously as Deputy Director in 2017 and Head of the Department of Inorganic Materials Chemistry (DCMI).

Education:

• 1999 – Habilitation, Université Louis Pasteur, Strasbourg, France
• 1990 – PhD in Solid State Chemistry, University of Nantes, France
• 1987 – Post-Graduate Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, University of Nantes
• 1986 – Master’s in Science and Technology of Materials, University of Nantes
• 1981 – Baccalauréat, Série C, Academy of Nantes, France

Research Interests:

His research integrates solid-state chemistry, molecular magnetism, and hybrid organic–inorganic materials. He focuses on low-dimensional magnetic systems, including layered and molecular magnets, multifunctional nanostructures, and coordination polymers. Emphasis is placed on synthesis (hydrothermal, solid-state, precipitation), structural characterization, and predictive modeling of magnetic behavior under external stimuli.

Scientific Awards:

• 1998 – Prize of the Solid State Chemistry Division, French Chemical Society
• 2007 – Bronze Medal, National Federation of Youth and Sports

Professional Engagement & Leadership:

Pierre RABU has held numerous leadership roles, including Director of IPCMS (2018–present), Deputy Director (2017), and Head of the Department of Inorganic Chemistry of Materials (2014–2016). He has chaired the CNRS GdR “Matériaux Hybrides Organisés Multifonctionnels” (2005–2008), served as President (2013–2016) and Vice-President (2016–present) of the Alsace section of the French Chemical Society, and contributed to COST Action MP1202 HINT. He has undertaken visiting fellowships at the University of New Orleans (2001) and Kyushu University (1996), and is active in Materials Research Society, European Materials Research Society, IUPAC, and IUCr.

Laboratory & Teams:

He leads the Department of Inorganic Materials Chemistry (DCMI) at IPCMS, Strasbourg, overseeing research teams dedicated to synthesis, structural analysis, and advanced characterization of inorganic and hybrid materials. The DCMI hosts state-of-the-art facilities for hydrothermal synthesis, X-ray diffraction, magnetic measurements, and electron microscopy, fostering collaborative projects across France and internationally.