Passing of Sylvain David
We were deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death of Sylvain David on 23 February. He was a research director and scientific delegate at CNRS Nuclei & Particles in charge of coordinating national programmes for nuclear energy, after holding several positions as project leader and deputy scientific director in charge of interdisciplinarity at the institute since 2014.
Sylvain left us suddenly and prematurely, leaving us bereaved, deeply saddened.
Sylvain was a one-of-a-kind scientist, whose authenticity shone through in every aspect of his work. His exceptional scientific curiosity led him to explore all the disciplines related to nuclear energy. His broad knowledge made him a key reference in the field.
With his visionary spirit, Sylvain made us aware of the urgent need for scientists, industrialists and politicians to work together to meet the challenges of nuclear energy. These scientists are physicists, chemists, geologists, engineers and social scientists. It is thanks to him and his unfailing determination that these communities from different backgrounds have been able to build ambitious programmes that will endure.
He also excelled at scientific communication. Whether dealing with students or the general public, he passed on knowledge with a steadfast concern never to betray the scientific truth.
As a member of the CNRS Nuclei & Particles management team, he defended the projects that are being deployed in our laboratories with conviction and passion, and has already paved the way for us for the years to come.
The research community has lost an outstanding scientist, we have lost a colleague whose integrity and commitment will remain an example to us all, and we have lost a friend who leaves a huge void.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
In memory of Sylvain David
Testimonials in Sylvain's memory can be sent by email to memoriam.sylvain-david@in2p3.fr. They will be posted on this page as they arrive: https://cc.in2p3.fr/sylvain/.