Publication of the 2021 Annual Report

The 2021 Annual Report is available online, in an interactive digital format, with a foreword by Marwan Lahoud, IHES Chairman.

 

“Many invited researchers tell us how much they love coming to IHES, where they can interact with other prominent scientists and also enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the peace of Bois-Marie, as well as the accommodation at the Ormaille residence. The magic that characterizes IHES is thanks to our entire community: visiting and permanent researchers, administrative staff, supporters, donors and friends. Thank you so much to all of you!

Speaking of community, I would like to pay tribute to the work of Friends of IHES, our fundraising partner organization in the United States and to thank especially Michael R. Douglas, who was its President and Chairman from 2013 to 2021. Under his guidance, many successful events were organized – galas, conferences, dinners – which helped IHES develop relationships with its American sponsors.

We are delighted that Marilyn and Jim Simons, the Institute’s main donors, have accepted to take over his presidency. Their commitment to our work is important and transformational for IHES. I would also like to express my warm thanks to them both for their new gift of 25 million euros, donated by the Simons Foundation: not only does this represent a record gift for IHES but a record one for basic research in France generally.

In France, we were honored to receive the visit of His Serene Highness the Prince Albert II of Monaco in June 2021. Permanent professor Thibault Damour gave a lecture on gravitational waves during this visit. The Prince chatted with several young researchers and was able to appreciate both the vitality of scientific activity undertaken at IHES and its clearly international reach.In order to preserve the Institute’s unique atmosphere and continue offering scientists the highest hosting standards, major work was carried out in the Ormaille residence in 2021. IHES benefited from funding provided by the Ministry of the Economy, Finance and the Recovery, as part of an ambitious program of renovation and improved energy efficiency for its buildings.

There were many hybrid (in person/on line) events in 2021, including scientific conferences and seminars, Board meetings, a Cercle des Mécènes event and the Friends of IHES gala. We noted that events and meetings continued to operate successfully, even remotely. Nonetheless, it is such a pleasure to meet face-to- face once again, to enjoy the cafeteria and teatime at the Institute and to soak up the magic of Bois-Marie: we very much look forward to meeting you here soon!”

Marwan Lahoud
IHES Chairman