On Tuesday, July 8th, the ICB Laboratory held its annual day in the Grand Amphitheater of Polytech Dijon. The event brought together unit staff, former laboratory members, and invited colleagues for a scientific, historical, and festive program.

A morning of reflection and transmission

The day began with a welcome coffee reception, a welcome opportunity to reconnect before the General Assembly, led by Stéphane Guérin, Director of the ICB. This provided a chance to review current developments within the unit and introduce new members who have joined the laboratory to strengthen its research focus.

The highlight of the morning was undoubtedly the presentation of the ICB’s carbon footprint, delivered by E. Bourillot and E. Finot, underscoring the laboratory’s commitment to ecological transition and environmental responsibility.

This first part of the day concluded with a lecture by Denis Guthleben, Deputy Director of the CNRS History Committee, entitled “The History of Physics and Chemistry at the CNRS.” His presentation put the evolution of these disciplines within French public research into perspective.

A day marked by intergenerational exchanges

The event also provided an opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues, now retired, including former lecturers and administrative staff, who came together to share a moment of reminiscence and camaraderie. Staff from the ICMUB laboratory (University of Burgundy Franche-Comté) were also present, demonstrating the close ties between laboratories in Dijon.

Relaxing afternoon and exploration

The afternoon was designed to be more relaxed, with extracurricular activities intended to appeal to everyone. Options included:

• Guided tours of the city of Dijon,
• Planetarium shows organized by the Astronomical Society of Burgundy,
• A bike ride to the Darcy-Bazin soliton canal,
• And various team sports: beach volleyball, football, pétanque, or mölkky.

A highlight for the ICB community

Beyond the scientific presentations, this day primarily served to strengthen personal and professional bonds.

On this occasion, an ICB/UBE medal—designed within our unit by the CRM—was presented to Hans Jauslin to mark his retirement, while also recognizing his continued work as an emeritus researcher.

🎥 Watch the aftermovie of the event