Obituary for Professor Pierre Chambon (1931 – 2026)
Obituary for Professor Pierre Chambon (1931 – 2026) - A pioneer of molecular biology has died
We were sad to learn that Pierre Chambon – an extraordinary scientist, tireless leader and visionary builder – one of the great founding figures of modern molecular biology and a pioneer in the study of nuclear receptors, died on May 5, 2026 in Strasbourg, at the age of 95. Over the course of a career spanning more than five decades, his work has structured entire fields, from chromatin biology to endocrine pharmacology.
He trained generations of molecular biologists, many of whom now run their own laboratories, and he remained a committed player in the scientific debate until late in his life, maintaining an emeritus laboratory and participating in the strategic definition of French biotechnology.
In 2012 Professor Chambon was awarded Honorary Membership of ESE in recognition to his contribution to science. One of his well-known quotes is as relevant today as it was in his early days: “Research is a necessity, not a luxury.”
He will be sorely missed, and our thoughts are with his family, friends and all who knew, worked and were trained by him.
14/05/2026
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